Joslin Kamatuka Becomes Free Agent After Durban City Exit as Transfer Interest Grows
A major change has hit the South African football transfer market as highly-rated Namibian striker Joslin Kamatuka becomes a free agent following his departure from Durban City. The forward has now entered the open market after a productive spell with the club, where he contributed to a strong season that ended with silverware and a top-eight league finish. His exit comes at a time when several squad changes are also taking place within the team, signalling a broader transition phase. Kamatuka is now available to negotiate with any club, and early indications suggest he is open to continuing his career in South Africa. The development has already attracted attention from clubs monitoring experienced attacking options.
Kamatuka’s departure forms part of a wider squad reshuffle at Durban City, with multiple players either leaving or ending their professional careers. Among those confirmed to be moving on is Terrence Mashego, who has returned to Mamelodi Sundowns after his loan spell concluded. Veteran goalkeeper Darren Keet has also brought his career to an end, marking the close of an experienced chapter in South African football. In addition, Ayanda Mtshali has retired, further reducing the squad’s experienced core. These changes reflect a significant restructuring phase for the club following a demanding season.
Despite the exits, Durban City enjoyed a successful campaign that exceeded expectations in several areas. The team secured qualification for the 2026/27 MTN8 competition after finishing eighth in the league standings. Their season was also highlighted by a strong Nedbank Cup run, which ended in silverware and boosted the club’s profile. These achievements have increased interest in both players and coaching roles within the team. However, success has also triggered a natural cycle of squad reassessment as the club prepares for new challenges.
The situation surrounding Kamatuka is particularly notable due to his profile and experience. The Namibian striker has built a reputation for being a reliable forward with strong physical presence and finishing ability. According to sources close to the player, he is now focused on securing a new opportunity after the club decided not to extend his contract. He is currently a free agent and is taking time to consider his next move while spending time at home during the off-season. His availability has already sparked early conversations among interested parties, although no formal agreement has been reached yet.
Reports suggest that there is growing interest in Kamatuka’s services, both locally and from outside South Africa. However, his preference appears to lean towards remaining in the South African football system, where he has established familiarity with the style and competition level. His experience in the domestic league makes him an attractive option for clubs looking for proven attacking depth without a transfer fee. While no concrete offers have been finalised, discussions are expected to progress as the transfer window develops. His situation is likely to remain one of the quieter but closely watched moves in the market.
At the same time, Durban City are preparing for a new leadership era as they look to appoint a head coach ahead of the next season. Names such as Eric Tinkler have been strongly linked with the position, while John Maduka is also being considered as a possible candidate. The coaching decision is expected to influence the club’s transfer strategy and squad rebuilding plans. With key players departing, the incoming coach will likely have a significant role in shaping the team’s identity going forward. The appointment is expected to be confirmed in the coming days, adding clarity to the club’s direction.
The broader context of these changes shows a club entering a transitional phase despite recent success. Winning the Nedbank Cup and securing a top-eight finish has raised expectations for future performance. However, maintaining consistency in South African football often requires continuous squad adjustments. The departure of experienced players like Kamatuka, Keet, and Mtshali reflects both natural career progression and strategic restructuring. The challenge now lies in replacing that experience with effective recruitment and development.
For Kamatuka, the next chapter of his career presents both opportunity and uncertainty. As a free agent, he has the advantage of flexibility in choosing his next destination without transfer restrictions. His goal will be to join a project where he can maintain consistent game time and continue contributing at a high level. Clubs in need of a proven striker may view his availability as a timely solution ahead of the new season. His decision in the coming weeks could shape the next phase of his professional journey.
Durban City now move forward with a clear rebuilding agenda, balancing squad changes with coaching decisions and transfer planning. The club’s recent success has provided a strong foundation, but the next step will require careful squad construction to maintain competitiveness. Kamatuka’s exit is part of that wider transition, reflecting how quickly football cycles evolve after a successful campaign. As both player and club prepare for new directions, the upcoming transfer window will play a key role in defining their futures.
