Oupa Manyisa off to downs

Mamelodi Sundowns are on the verge of sealing a mega deal for diminutive midfielder Oupa Manyisa to join them from Orlando Pirates.

Manyisa's agent, Thabo Moloto, said yesterday that a transfer fee for the creative midfielder, who is in camp with Bafana Bafana ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, could be agreed by Monday.

"He is going to join Sundowns this month. But the transfer fee has not been agreed. Let us give them time until Monday to talk and announcements on the deal will be made," Moloto said.

Manyisa's contract with the Buccaneers expires in June and Pirates are keen to cash in now and possibly replace their most prized possession with Platinum Stars midfielder Robert Ng'ambi.

Sundowns are also looking to complete a deal to sign highly rated Stars defender Tshepo Gumede.

Gumede, who has been a consistent performer at the heart of the Dikwena defence, has previously stated that he was willing to listen to offers.

Sundowns' communications manager Thulani Thuswa said: "It's true. We have begun talks with him."

Downs captain Alje Schut is set to leave the club at the end of the season and Gumede is seen as a replacement for the big Dutchman.

Dikwena have also given goalkeeper Siyabonga Mpontshane permission to talk to a club of his choice and he is likely to join Pirates.

"They [Stars] gave us until [today] to apply our minds and make a final decision on their offer. We are just trying to make sure that everything makes sense," said Mpontshane's agent, Tim Sukazi.