Johannesburg - Platinum Stars seem to have resigned themselves to loosing reliable defender Mbulelo ‘OJ’ Mabizela.

The 30-year-old player has been linked with a transfer move to league champions SuperSport United after they concluded a deal for Bongani Khumalo to move to Tottenham Hotspur.

Platinum Stars general manager Jason Rainer confirmed that the club is in talks with SuperSport in regards to the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates central defender.

“We are busy talking to United for the possible transfer deal of Mabizela, but it’s too early to confirm anything except to say he remains our player for now,” said Rainer.

The Siya crew has long been told by the player’s representative that United have approached them seeking clarity on the availability of the player. SuperSport coach Gavin Hunt is looking to fill the void created by the departure of Khumalo during January window period.

Stars did engage in talks with Mabizela and his representative to extend his stay, but negotiations reached a stalemate and in fear of not cashing in on the player’s eventual departure, they are now compelled to sell him in January.

A Siya source said the player is also keen on the move as he’s seeking more competition.