Stellenbosch assessing ex-Chiefs defender Happy Mashiane

The public broadcaster broke the news that the AmaKhosi academy graduate would be leaving Naturena after seven years at the club, a decision that was officially confirmed by Chiefs last week.

The public broadcaster understands Mashiane is currently being assessed by Stellenbosch, who are exploring the possibility of offering the 27-year-old a fresh start under head coach Gavin Hunt – the pair previously worked together during Hunt's spell with the Soweto giants. 

Mashiane has long been on Stellenbosch's radar, with the Cape Winelands outfit expressing interest in signing him around three seasons ago. 

However, the player opted to remain at Chiefs, believing he could establish himself as a regular in the first team.

Instead, he spent the second half of last season on loan at Siwelele FC. 

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Although the Bloemfontein-based club were somewhat satisfied with his contribution, they were only prepared to consider a permanent move if he became available as a free agent by terminating his Chiefs contract. 

Now that Mashiane has officially left Chiefs, Stellenbosch have moved to take a closer look at the versatile left-sided player as Hunt begins reshaping his squad following a significant player exodus at the end of the 2025/26 campaign.

It remains unclear whether Stellies will offer Mashiane a contract, with the club still evaluating their options before making a final decision.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch have been active in the transfer market and are expected to announce the signing of Bafana Mthethwa, who is leaving Richards Bay for the Winelands ahead of the upcoming campaign.

The move is believed to be imminent…