Golden Arrows striker Junior Dion urged to make most of contract crossroads

Golden Arrows striker Junior Dion has entered the final year of his contract with transfer interest growing, and fellow Ivorian Brice Aka believes the forward must make the most of what could be the most important stage of his career.

Dion remains a key figure for Golden Arrows and has again shouldered much of the club’s scoring responsibility this season. He has scored four goals so far, adding to the 15 he managed in his first campaign after producing an impressive double-figure return.

Interest in the striker has continued to build despite Golden Arrows resisting offers from clubs outside South Africa. The club previously chose not to sell him, but the fact that he is now in the final year of his agreement is likely to keep speculation around his future alive.

Aka, who is currently involved in an academy project in Europe, believes Dion is at the right age and level to pursue a move that could significantly improve his career and financial position.

“Dion is at his peak now and enjoying his football, so he needs to make it the most rewarding phase of his career,” Aka told KickOff.

Like Dion, Aka played as a centre-forward in the PSL and understands the pressure and uncertainty that can accompany an attempt to secure a move to a bigger club. He experienced that situation during his time with Maritzburg United.

“I’m sure he is dreaming of a big team now.

“So, while football is a short career and he needs to make financial decisions, for now he belongs to Arrows and so needs no drama and sour grapes.

“I’m glad he respects his contract and is doing the job for Arrows as per his employment contract.

“I obviously want to see him at a bigger team as a fellow countryman because he has a family to look after.

“He needs to make the best choice financially now.

“I was once there and tried a move to Europe and even came to Auxerre for a couple of weeks, but it didn’t work out and I went back to play in the Telkom [Knockout] Cup for Maritzburg.

“In my case, I wasn’t that much adventurous at the time because my kids were in South Africa.

Aka says Dion’s next move should be handled carefully, with respect shown to Golden Arrows while he remains under contract.

“For Dion, it is right for him to move, but it must be smooth, and he must respect the employer.

“We all agree that he must go to a bigger club now after Arrows.

“The age factor must be considered as well because he will be called a veteran soon and no favourable contracts will come,” outlines Aka.

With four goals already this season and his current deal approaching its conclusion, Dion has an opportunity to strengthen his position while continuing to perform for Golden Arrows. Aka’s advice is that any transfer should balance the striker’s ambitions with the need to make the best possible financial decision before his options become more limited.