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DANIEL MOTHOWAGAE

SHAUN Bartlett could play for Ajax Cape Town next season when his contract at English Premiership club Charlton Athletic expires at the end of the current season.

It is also rumoured that the striker could be the club's furture shareholder. Ajax CEO John Comitis confirmed that they are keen to lure the retired Bafana Bafana skipper to reinforce his playing squad ahead of the new season.

Comitis, however, dispelled rumours of the player being earmarked to serve in the capacity of a shareholder.

The discussions of a possible Ajax move for Bartlett are already under way, initiated by Comitis and the player's business manager Glyn Binkin. "Shaun is a Cape Town boy and we are keen to bring him to the club," said Comitis, without giving away much.

Binkin confirmed that Bartlett has expressed interest in returning to the country to conclude his playing days in the PSL.

He also hinted that there are other several PSL clubs that have shown interest in the 33-year-old striker. "Yes, they (Ajax) have spoken to me about Shaun and we discussed about a possible move," said Binkin.

When asked about the details of the talks, Binkin said: "I can't disclose further at this stage except to say that we are looking at opportunities for Shaun beyond his playing days."

Indications are that the "opportunities beyond playing days" Binkin could be referring to clearly suggest that Bartlett could well be earmarked for a place in the technical staff or as a potential shareholder at the club when he quits playing.

The lanky all-time Bafana top goalscorer would likely settle in the Cape where he is believed to own a string of properties among his local business ventures.

Bartlett has had a frustrating season at Charlton that was further compounded by injuries. "I have not made any decision as yet but I won't rule out possibilities of coming back," said Bartlett when contacted this week.