SuperSport United chief executive Stan Matthews has revealed that the club shot down a Kaizer Chiefs’ offer for Evans Rusike during the current transfer window.

The Zimbabwean was one of Matsatsantsa’s star men last season and has reportedly been on the Chiefs’ radar since the arrival of Ernst Middendorp, having previously worked with the forward at Maritzburg United.

SuperSport, however, had no interest in losing the 29-year-old who will play a vital role in the side’s attack this season.

‘Yes, Chiefs wanted Rusike, but we turned them down. We are not looking to sell any of our forwards. We are looking to buy strikers,’ said Matthews.

With Chiefs unable to get their man they turned to the likes of Samir Nurkovic and Lazarus Nkambole, while also strengthening the midfield with the acquisitions of James Koeti and Kearyn Baccus.

Chiefs now boast a forward line which could feature the two new signings, Khama Billiat, Lebogang Manyama, Leonardo Castro and Dumisani Zuma, to name a few. Despite not getting Rusike, Middendorp has strengthened up top and will have a number of options to choose from throughout the campaign.