Bafana Bafana international Bongokuhle Hlongwane has revealed that while Mamelodi Sundowns were leading the local race for his signature, he chose to realise his dream with a move to play overseas.

On Wednesday, Maritzburg United announced that the 21-year-old had signed a three-year contract with an option for a further year with MLS club Minnesota United FC.

The move ended weeks of speculation with a number of local clubs also believed to be interested in signing the forward.

Hlongwane, however, rejected those moves in order to become Minnesota’s first U22 initiative signing and will join up with the Loons after completing his medical and finalising his visa.

The Bafana star told KickOff that while Sundowns were leading the race locally, he decided to follow his dream to play abroad.

“There were teams in South Africa that were interested,” Hlongwane said.

“Mamelodi Sundowns were leading the race. I signed for Minnesota United because I wanted to realise my dream of playing overseas.”

“Ngijabulor impela [I am so happy],” Hlongwane added. “I want to achieve a lot but I need to work because I don’t yet know the challenges I will face there.

“But, okuhle kodwa engikufisayo [all good things I wish to achieve overseas].”

Minnesota United finished fifth in the Western Conference last season, losing to MLS Cup finalists Portland Timbers in round one of the MLS Cup playoffs.