A European club has emerged as the frontrunner to sign one of South Africa's most promising defensive talents, with reports suggesting both Soweto giants are set to miss out on a player they've been actively pursuing.
The French top flight outfit is reportedly ready to meet the substantial asking price set by the player's current employers, potentially leaving local suitors unable to compete for the signature of the Bafana Bafana international.
As first reported by Soccer Laduma, Sekhukhune United left back Vuyo Letlapa has been monitored by a European team which is now willing to pay the Babina Noko asking price to sign him.
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Now, sources close to both the player and the club have indicated that Nice of France are the team in the hunt for the Bafana Bafana defender.
"There are local teams which have shown interest and Pirates were believed to be in the forefront to sign him but apparently the French Ligue 1 side OGC Nice is the one leading now. They are very close to closing the deal. Remember we spoke about European interest before," the source told Soccer Laduma.
A second source stated that the price tag on the 21-year-old is believed to be around R20 million.
"Yes, that's what Sekhukhune United are looking at. R20m is what the price is believed to be for Vuyo (Letlapa). And just like they did with Elias Mokwana to Esperance de Tunis, they are including a 30% sell on clause to the next club agreement on the deal. So, if Nice sells Vuyo then Sekhukhune United will get 30% from that deal. That's why they are looking at R20m for now," the second source told the Siya crew.
Letlapa joined Sekhukhune United at the start of the season from ABC Motsepe side Jomo Cosmos and he has already established himself as a regular at Babina Noko, even earning a Bafana Bafana call-up from coach Hugo Broos.
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Soccer Laduma contacted Sekhukhune for comment but there was no response at the time of preparing this story.
For the player, a possible move to Nice would mark a remarkable rise to one of Europe's top five leagues, if the transfer does go ahead.
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