Sekhukhune United sign highly-rated defender

Betway Premiership club Sekhukhune United have completed the signing of highly-rated defender Samba O'Neil ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, Foot Africa has learnt.

The 26-year-old centre-back signed a pre-contract with Babina Noko as his deal at Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko is set to expire at the end of June.

O'Neil, who is represented by Prosport International, is understood to have put pen to paper on a two-year deal with an option to extend his stay by a further two years.

Sources have indicated that Sekhukhune beat a host of clubs from the NBC Tanzania Premier League and the Libyan Premier League to the player's signature.

The Asante Kotoko captain made 34 appearances across all competitions in the 2025/26 season, chipping in with a staggering six goals in the process.

He is expected to bring healthy competition and stability at the heart of Babina Noko's defence, with Bright Ndlovu seemingly converted to a striker.

Moreover, O'Neil will bring international experience having recently switched allegiance from Congo Brazzaville to Niger last month.

The player is currently in camp with Niger for the two international friendly matches against Benin and Guinea-Bissau.

Whether O'Neil will swiftly stake his claim in the starting XI at Sekhukhune remains to be seen as the club looks to secure CAF inter-club football next season.

The stalwart could work under the guidance of former Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze, who is reportedly set to take over the reins at the Limpopo club.

Hlayisani Magoro

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Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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