Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Siyanda Xulu: Picture: Gallo Images

Xulu finally join Rostov

Rudzani Makumbe

Siyanda Xulu has finally joined the Russian side Rostov after a long running complex discussion about the youngster’s contract.

Xulu's deal was finalised just in time before the transfer window was shut on Wednesday night.

Following a delay in the transfer of Bafana Bafana centre-back, the Brazilians have since acquired negative connotation of not interested in releasing talented players to other teams.

Speaking to the club's official website, Kabelo Mosito said Sundowns should not be blamed for the delay.  

“The reports yesterday were clearly a case of the journalist not allowing the facts to get into the way of what he thought was a good story," Sundowns spokesperson Kabelo Mosito told the club's official website. 

"Xulu knew what was happening, and his agent knew what was happening, so to blame Sundowns was disingenuous,” he added.

Earlier this week, Sundowns accused Rostov of stalling the deal to transfer central defender by sending back a contract containing new clauses which were not part of the agreement.

The 20-year-old's departure leaves more danger in Mamelodi Sundowns' defence which proved to be underperforming this season.

Bye Mzansi,,u'll always hold a special place in my heart!!!Russia I'm cuming 4u,,,b ready!!!
— Siyanda Xulu (@SiyandaXulu) September 7, 2012

Siyanda Xulu joined Sundowns in 2009 from Kaizer Chiefs development structures. He will be remembered for his goal in the 2009/2010 season when he scored a winner as Mamelodi Sundowns edged Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 at a packed Moses Mabhida Stadium.

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