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SABC Sport understands the Premier Soccer League Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC) has declared midfielder Luke Baartman a free agent, paving the way for Kaizer Chiefs to complete his signing.
The decision ends weeks of uncertainty for Amakhosi as Baartman’s status was under review following Cape Town Spurs’ relegation to the ABC Motsepe League in May. Spurs endured back-to-back demotions—from the topflight and then the Motsepe Foundation Championship—dropping into the amateur ranks.
According to NSL rules, players become free agents under these circumstances.
However, Spurs argued that Baartman still had a binding contract, despite a clause stating he could leave if the club was relegated.
On Tuesday, the PSL DRC ruled in favour of Baartman, allowing him to join a club of his choice on a free transfer—expected to be Kaizer Chiefs.
Amakhosi received similar clearance just 10 days ago to sign former Spurs captain Asanele Velebayi, whose legal team fought to secure his release.
The DRC rejected Spurs’ arguments in both cases.
Chiefs are now expected to move quickly to finalise Baartman’s registration before Spurs escalate the matter to SAFA and request arbitration.
Spurs have voiced their displeasure, calling the rulings on Velebayi—and now Baartman—an injustice to clubs developing young talent in South Africa.
Baartman, 19, has not been training with Spurs during this contractual dispute and will likely link up with Chiefs once the paperwork is complete.
