Turkish Consortium Eyes Royal AM Amid PSL Uncertainty

A consortium from Turkey has expressed interest in acquiring Royal AM Football Club, as the KwaZulu-Natal-based club faces an uncertain future in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). According to sources close to the situation, the potential investors are closely monitoring developments as the PSL’s Board of Governors prepares to meet this Thursday to determine the club’s fate.

Royal AM’s continued participation in South Africa’s top-tier league is hanging by a thread, with the club facing possible expulsion due to persistent financial and administrative troubles. The PSL’s Executive Committee has already moved to expel the club, and the upcoming meeting could confirm that decision.

Financial Woes and Legal Battles

Owned by prominent businesswoman Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize, Royal AM has been plagued by financial instability, unpaid debts, and failure to honor scheduled fixtures. Additionally, the club is embroiled in a legal battle with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) over alleged tax-related issues.

The last competitive match played by the team was in December 2024, where they suffered a 3-1 defeat against TS Galaxy. Since then, all their fixtures have been suspended, casting further doubt on their future.

Past Sale Attempts and Current Interest

Attempts to sell the club locally have so far been unsuccessful. A previous deal, reported to be worth R20 million and involving businessman Chockalingam ‘Roy’ Moodley and his family’s company, Global Investments, collapsed at the last minute.

With Royal AM now back on the market, international interest has emerged. Sources indicate that a Turkish consortium is seriously considering a takeover, provided the PSL meeting does not result in the club’s outright expulsion.

However, Royal AM’s precarious position at the bottom of the PSL log – with only eight points from 11 matches – has raised concerns among potential investors. The risk of acquiring a club that may soon be without a league spot is a significant factor in their decision-making process.

Potential Foreign Investment in South African Football

Despite the risks, the Turkish consortium remains eager to enter South Africa’s football industry. Their decision will hinge on the outcome of the PSL’s crucial meeting. If the league opts to grant Royal AM a reprieve or finds an alternative resolution, a deal could be finalized sooner than anticipated.

“These are business people from Turkey. They are interested in buying the club, but they want to be sure of what its status is with the league. They are in contact with their people in South Africa,” a source told the Siya crew.

As the football community awaits the PSL’s final decision, the potential acquisition of Royal AM by foreign investors could mark a new chapter for the club and introduce a fresh dynamic to South African football.