Potential suitors are likely to struggle in their pursuit of Stellenbosch FC defender Ismael Toure and insiders have explained why.
With 34 appearances across all competitions in the 2023/24 season, Toure emerged as one of the top centre-backs in the league, having also bagged a few Man of the Match awards in the process, much to the interest of his followers.
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Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns are among the clubs understood to have been monitoring the tough-tackling Ivorian although it could be difficult to prize him away from the Cape Winelands, according to sources.
The 26-year-old helped Stellenbosch to their maiden trophy in the top flight with the Carling Knockout, as well as their qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup, and he remains one of the most valuable members of the team in planning for next season.
"There's a lot of interest in Ismael Toure, and yes, Pirates, Chiefs and Sundowns are all keen on his services," said the source.
"But it's going to be difficult for him to leave because he is an important member of the team at Stellenbosch and the club is planning around him for next season considering that he also has CAF experience. He is one of the players who ensured that Marumo Gallants had an impressive Confederation Cup campaign the last time he played in the competition, and Stellenbosch will want to use that to their advantage. Also, he's got a contract with the club, and unless one of the interested teams will be prepared to pay big, he is unlikely to move this winter," the source said.
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As part of the planning for greater success for Stellies, the club's head coach Steve Barker had previously stated that they have prioritised not losing their best players in order to achieve their objectives.
Recently, the tactician hinted that sought-after midfielder Jayden Adams would cost around R40 million, an indication that the 23-year-old is unlikely to be available for a local move either.
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