Jaisen Clifford: Former Marumo Gallants Forward Set for Siwelele Switch After Leaving as Free Agent

South African forward Jaisen Clifford is poised to join Siwelele FC on a free transfer after choosing not to renew his deal with Marumo Gallants, Soccer Laduma reports.

The 30-year-old attacker became a free agent at the end of June when his one-year contract with Gallants expired, bringing an end to his brief but eye-catching spell at the club.

Clifford is now expected to bolster Siwelele’s front line ahead of the new Betway Premiership season, with club insiders indicating that an agreement is close as the team seeks greater attacking firepower.

Experienced forward back in South African spotlight

Clifford’s move to Marumo Gallants had marked his return to South African football after spending almost 10 years abroad, where he gained significant experience across various leagues.

Despite being given only five starts in the 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign, Clifford made 22 league appearances in total and was widely regarded as having made a strong impact in the final third.

He ended the season with four goals, including notable strikes against two of the country’s most high-profile clubs, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. Those performances drew praise from observers who believed he merited more consistent selection in the starting XI.

While official confirmation from Siwelele has yet to be made public, Siya sources suggest the club views Clifford as a key addition as they attempt to sharpen their attacking options for the upcoming campaign.

Free-agent decision opens door for Siwelele

Clifford’s exit from Marumo Gallants followed his decision not to extend the one-year contract he signed on his return to the South African top flight.

The forward had joined Gallants with a reputation as a seasoned professional after nearly a decade overseas, and his contributions last season – particularly in high-profile fixtures – underlined his value as an experienced attacking option.

His availability on a free transfer has made him an attractive target, with Siwelele now expected to move quickly to secure his signature before the new season kicks off.

If the transfer is completed, Clifford would bring proven quality and versatility to Siwelele’s attack, as the club attempts to improve its cutting edge in front of goal and build on its ambitions for the 2026/27 campaign.

Siwelele eye attacking upgrade

Siwelele’s pursuit of Clifford comes as part of a broader effort to reinforce the squad and compete more strongly in the Betway Premiership.

The club is believed to be prioritising players with top-flight experience who can make an immediate impact, and Clifford’s track record – particularly his goals against Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates – fits that profile.

While no official unveiling has taken place, all indications from sources close to the negotiations are that Clifford is set to continue his career in South Africa with Siwelele, in what would be one of the more notable domestic free-agent moves of the off-season.