Richards Bay FC is heavily linked with a move for Thabang Sibanyoni, who spent last season on loan at the University of Pretoria.

Sibanyoni appears to be out of favor at Mamelodi Sundowns, having been loaned out for several seasons in a row. At 28, he likely desires a permanent home, with six loan spells since his promotion to the Sundowns first team in the 2019/20 season.

Last season marked Sibanyoni’s second loan stint at Tuks, following previous loans to JDR Stars, Sekhukhune United (twice), and SuperSport United in the 2022/23 season.

He played a key role in Tuks’ near-promotion to the DStv Premiership last season, as they finished second in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. However, they lost to Richards Bay in the promotion/relegation playoffs, who retained their top-flight status with a win at home and a draw away against AmaTuks in the mini-league format.

If Bay can secure Sibanyoni’s signature quickly, he could be unveiled alongside other new signings at the club’s upcoming press conference on Wednesday. The club is also expected to unveil a new sponsor at the event.

Other players who have been signed by Menziwa Holding include Siyethemba Sithebe from Kaizer Chiefs, Thabiso Kutumela from Sundowns, and Keegan Allan from SuperSport United.

Coach Vusi Vilakazi, who guided the club to retaining their DStv Premiership status, has also extended his contract with Richards Bay.