Chippa United have confirmed the signing of defender Fares Hachi from Mamelodi Sundowns on a loan deal until the end of the season.

The former ES Setif man becomes the club’s fifth signing of the transfer window under coach Teboho Moloi following the arrivals of Linda Mntambo, Mxolisi Macuphu, Bantu Mzwakali and Thabo Rakhale.

Executive chairman, Siviwe Mpengesi took to the club’s official website to confirm the deal, in addition to praising the Algerian defender.

‘The signing of Fares Hachi is a strong statement and augers well with our ambitions this season,’ he told the club’s official website.

‘He is a player that has played in the Champions League, and his experience will help us during the second round of the season.

‘His talent is not in doubt, despite not seeing much game time at Mamelodi Sundowns.

‘We welcome him in the blue and white of Chippa United, and wish him all the best during his stay with us. He will get all the support for him to fulfill his potential.

‘I would like to express my gratitude to Mamelodi Sundowns for the professionalism they displayed throughout the negotiations,’ he added.

Hachi highlighted his excitement at joining Chippa following his first training session with the club.

‘I am excited to be joining the Chilli Boys. I was first fascinated by the nickname, Chilli Boys when I saw the flag.

‘I want to thank the club for giving me an opportunity to come here. I already feel at home despite being here for few hours,’ he said with a smile.

‘Chippa United has evolved from last season, and you could see not only in the games against Mamelodi Sundowns but they have been strong this season.

‘They have clear objectives to finish as high as possible on the league table and I am happy to make a contribution towards that.

‘There is a lot of talent here; [Kurt] Lentjies, the midfielder Abel [Mabaso], the winger on the left, no 7 [Paseka Mako] to mention but a few. Players with good energy always looking to attack,’ he concluded.

Photo: Chippa Utd’s website