Yusuf Maart signs new SV Ried contract after interest from Rapid Wien and Saudi Arabia

South African midfielder Yusuf Maart has agreed a new two-year contract with SV Ried, keeping the former Kaizer Chiefs captain at the Austrian club until June 2028.

Maart’s representatives, P Management, confirmed the improved agreement to Soccer Laduma.

“He has signed an improved two-year contract,” Maart’s representatives, P Management, informed this publication.

The new deal represents a significant commitment from SV Ried, whose previous agreement with Maart was due to expire next year. The club has acted before then to secure the midfielder’s future, underlining the importance he has assumed since arriving in Austria.

Maart joined SV Ried from Kaizer Chiefs last year and has made 44 appearances for the club. His performances in central midfield have established him as an important member of the squad, while his consistent displays have helped justify the faith placed in him by the Austrian side.

That contribution also attracted interest from elsewhere. Sources indicated that SV Ried had to resist an approach from Rapid Wien, one of Austria’s leading clubs, as it sought to retain Maart. The club also faced interest from Saudi Arabia.

“There was also interest from Saudi Arabia, but SV Ried desperately wanted to hold on to him,” said our source.

Despite that attention, Maart will remain with SV Ried as the club continues its campaign. His contract extension provides clarity over his immediate future and ensures the Austrian side retains a midfielder who has quickly become a central figure in its team.

The South African’s continued presence also means he will remain alongside compatriot Jaedin Rhodes. Rhodes joined SV Ried from Cape Town City in June, giving the club two South African players as it looks to move forward.

Maart’s renewal comes after a year in which he has made a substantial impact at the Austrian club. Having arrived from Amakhosi, he has gone on to feature 44 times for SV Ried and earn a longer-term commitment from the club.

The decision to extend his stay until June 2028 follows interest from both domestic and overseas sources, but SV Ried has succeeded in keeping the former Kaizer Chiefs captain as it aims to build on his contribution in midfield.