Five free agents who could still make an impact after the PSL transfer window closes

The PSL winter transfer window is set to slam shut at midnight tomorrow, making it improbable for contracted players to move away from their respective clubs — unless they terminate their contracts.

However, free agents can still move whenever an opportunity arises, as they are not attached to any club in the PSL.

That’s why, below, we look at five players who can still secure new homes even after the transfer window closes abruptly tomorrow, following a series of movements in the local top flight.

Zakhele Lepasa

Lepasa cut his footballing teeth at Orlando Pirates reserves eight years ago. However, he wasn’t immediately integrated into the senior team, as he was sent out on loan to Stellenbosch and TS Galaxy, respectively.

After impressing at Galaxy — playing a key role in helping the Rockets become the first second-tier team to win the country’s premier knockout competition, the Nedbank Cup — he returned to Pirates.

At Pirates, Lepasa didn’t reach his full potential. He struggled with form and injuries, even being sent out on loan to the now-defunct SuperSport United.

Lepasa, though, can still be a lethal goal poacher. He has the technique and experience, which is why he could still add value to any team’s striking contingent — as long as he remains injury-free.

Wayde Jooste

There are few right-backs in the PSL top flight as quick as Jooste. And with modern football now requiring players to cover the flanks as wing-backs, Jooste can fit into most systems.

Granted, Jooste won’t always be quick — he’s 33 years old now. But given his experience, including spells at Pirates and, more recently, AmaZulu, Jooste would always make an invaluable squad member, especially in a team that’s still finding its identity.

Rivaldo Coetzee

Coetzee showed strong technical abilities during his spell at Sundowns, even being able to play in a variety of positions — either as a centre-back or central defensive midfielder.

His skill set and understanding of the game were quite marvellous to watch, especially considering he had previously failed a medical at Scottish giants Celtic. Sundowns took a gamble on him, and it paid off.

Still only 28 years old, Coetzee has a lot to offer — though he will need to be managed carefully to ensure that whatever Celtic’s medical team found does not continue to haunt him.

Thulani Serero

“Cream,” as Serero is affectionately known in football circles, returned to the PSL top flight last season to play for the now-relegated Cape Town City after spending more than a decade abroad.

While Serero didn’t play a full season with the Citizens — only arriving in the second half — he still showed flashes of his old self, with deft touches and silky passes.

He also showed his experience and maturity, mentoring Emile Witbooi, who possesses a similar skill set to Serero during his heyday.

Kamohelo Mokotjo

The relegation of Cape Town City left many players without a home, including Mokotjo. The 34-year-old initially made a name for himself when he captained the SA U12 team at a Danone championship in France more than two decades ago.

Mokotjo may be edging closer to retirement, but he still boasts abilities that allow him to control the engine room better than some younger players. That’s why he could still add depth to many top-flight teams.