Former Kaizer Chiefs striker Samir Nurkovic is back in the arms of Gavin Hunt’s SuperSport United after an initial setback in negotiations.

Sportswire reported a few weeks ago that SuperSport pushed Nurkovic’s move aside after they signed Abubeker Nasir from Mamelodi Sundowns on loan. This decision was influenced by the absence of Bradley Grobler, who is expected to be sidelined for most of the season.

However, the positive news for SuperSport is that Nurkovic is in the process of obtaining permanent residency in South Africa. This will allow him to be registered as a local player, eliminating the need for a work permit.

The Serbian striker’s availability has led SuperSport to reconsider their decision and sign him. It remains to be seen if Nurkovic will face his former club, Kaizer Chiefs, in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. Nurkovic is signed for free after he departed TS Galaxy after he fell out of favor with coach Sead Ramovic and was asked to train with the DStv Diski Challenge team. This led to tensions between the player and the club, ultimately resulting in his departure. 

Because his departure occurred before the transfer window closed, Nurkovic was free to sign with any PSL club. The 32-year-old striker joined Galaxy last season and scored 10 goals in 29 matches across all competitions. 

Prior to his time at Galaxy, Nurkovic had been involved in a dispute with Royal AM, which led to his release from the club. He took the matter to FIFA and won, resulting in a transfer ban for Royal AM. The club is now in its third transfer window ban due to this issue. 

Royal AM has appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and the hearing is scheduled for next month. 

Since arriving in South Africa in 2019, Nurkovic has featured in 107 matches, scoring 31 goals and providing 10 assists. He is best known for scoring the winning goal in the CAF Champions League semifinal against Wydad Casablanca in 2021, helping Chiefs become the first South African club to win in Morocco in the Champions League.   

Chiefs held firm as the second leg was a goalless draw in South Africa to reach the Champions League final but lost to Pitso Mosimane’s Al Ahly.   

Chiefs started that season – 2020/21 – under Hunt as their head coach.