Stellenbosch FC have further strengthened their squad by securing the services of Azerbaijani defender Turan Manafov.

The 27-year-old joins Stellies on a permanent basis after parting ways with Azerbaijani outfit Kapaz PFK.

He brings experience, having previously played for PFK Zaqatala, FK Sabail, Olympiakos Volou, Araz-Nakhchivan, and Kapaz PFK.

Manafov will be wearing the No. 2 jersey for Stellies and could be in line to make his debut when they face Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final on Saturday.

The Azerbaijani defender has become the seventh signing behind Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Muzomuhle Khanyi, Thapelo Mokobodi, Siviwe Nkwali, Dublin Boon, and Hendri Stanic.

“I am very happy to join Stellenbosch FC,” Manafov told his club’s official website.

“The Club’s ideas and principles appealed to me, and I am excited to be with a team that is competing at the highest levels.

“I’ve noticed that games are played at a faster pace in South Africa than in Azerbaijan, although both countries have good leagues, so I’m looking forward to testing myself, and also to playing in a continental competition where many stars have been produced.

“My ambition is to help the Club compete for silverware and hopefully win trophies, and in doing so to showcase my talent on a bigger platform. I will always give my best for the team, and I’m excited to finally get started.”

Image: Stellenbosch FC