Brazilian-born Gustavo Lopes and local lad Luyolo Slatsha are the two latest acquisitions by Usuthu. Photo: Supplied

news.reporter1959@gmail.com

AmaZulu Football Club has secured the services of what it described as ‘two exciting’ midfield additions during the ongoing January Fifa transfer window.

The two players in question are Luyolo Slatsha (22) joins Usuthu from Cape Town City and Brazilian-born Gustavo Lopes (24) arrives in the Usuthu camp as a free agent.

Qonce-born central midfielder Slatsha expressed his excitement after putting pen to paper, highlighting the environment he has encountered at the club. “It’s been a very welcoming environment so far. It’s an open space where the relationship between the coaches and players is very good.

“Communication is open, direct, accountable, and demanding in terms of the standards required to compete in the league,” said Slatsha. “There’s a strong balance in the squad — experienced, big-name players alongside exciting young talent. I believe this group can produce something special.

“My focus right now is to establish myself within the team, and from there, further aspirations will follow as things go,” Slatsha said.

Lopes, a highly rated and versatile central defender who previously turned out for Mozambican outfit Club Ferroviário de Beira, may be relatively unknown to Usuthu supporters, but he is confident of making a quick impression despite having spent just over a week in Durban ahead of his new chapter in the Premier Soccer League.

“South African football comes with a lot of pressure and is widely followed beyond the country’s borders,” Lopes said. “It’s good, well-played football, and that is clear to see. I’ve been very well received since arriving and have seen first-hand how organised the club is.

“The structure here is strong and professional, and I believe this is a club capable of achieving something significant,” Lopes added.