- Richards Bay coach Dimitar Pantev publicly suggested that striker Nqaba Xulu could attract interest from PSL's biggest clubs
- Xulu scored five goals in eight games this season, with a controversial disallowed goal adding to his growing profile
- Richards Bay are expected to demand a significant transfer fee if top clubs come calling for the in-form forward
Richards Bay coach Dimitar Pantev has placed Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns on notice, openly suggesting that striker Nqaba Xulu may not be at the club for long if his current form continues.
Pantev made his comments to journalists following the Carling Knockout Round of 16 draw, in which Richards Bay fell to a 4-1 defeat against Mamelodi Sundowns on Tuesday. Despite the loss, Xulu's performance did little to dim enthusiasm around his prospects.
"He can go very far, if he keeps focus, ambition – I think that very soon, big teams will be coming for him," Pantev said.
**Xulu's Form Putting PSL Giants on Notice**
The striker has registered five goals in eight appearances since joining the Natal Rich Boyz from Milford FC, making an immediate impact with his pace, physicality and finishing ability. During Tuesday's defeat, Xulu played a direct role in Richards Bay's only goal: his powerful strike was parried by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, with the ball falling to Lwandile Mabuya, who converted the rebound to make it 1-1 — momentarily levelling after Tashreeq Matthews had opened the scoring in the 18th minute.
Xulu's frustration mounted when what appeared to be a legitimate headed goal from Siyabonga Nzama's cross was ruled out for offside in the build-up. Replays indicated the decision may have been incorrect, meaning Xulu could plausibly have ended the night with a six-goal tally for the season.
**Which Club Could Land the Striker?**
With Sundowns already boasting significant attacking depth, a move to Tshwane appears unlikely in the near term unless a prominent departure opens up space. Chiefs have been linked with a need for attacking reinforcements, which could place them in the strongest position to move first.
Any interested club will, however, need to meet what is expected to be a substantial transfer fee. Should Xulu maintain his current scoring rate, Richards Bay are in no position to accept a low-ball offer, and a bidding war between the country's top clubs remains a genuine possibility.
Source: Briefly News
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