The latest reports from South Africa suggest that the Toni Nhelko deal is a “dead duck” and, despite the last official news being that he was still expected in the summer, it has been since January.

South African International Toni Nhleko’s transfer to the Saddlers was originally held up because of work permit problems and, once they were sorted out, by his mother’s illness. The last word from the club was that he had signed a short term contract with his original club, Jomo Cosmos, until the end of the season, and would then be joining Walsall.

According to South African football web site, Kick Off, however, Nhleko never had any intention of joining Walsall once the work permit problems stopped him coming in January, although his contract with Cosmos is only short term.

The site says Nhelko was not entitled to a work permit under the International rules, as he had not played enough games. The player is quoted as saying, “There was no option for me but to terminate the contract with Walsall. I’m just going to play here and help my teammates win games,”

Kick Off goes on to say the 28-year old might yet be on another overseas move at the start of the next season, but could not give details. “There is a possible overseas move for me but at the moment I can’t mention any names.”