Kermit Erasmus released by Ligue 1 club Stade Rennais
Since moving from Orlando Pirates in 2016, the South African forward made just 13 appearances for the French side.
South African striker Kermit Erasmus has been released by French side Stade Rennais, the club announced on Thursday.
Erasmus arrived in Rennes in the 2016 transfer window but the 27-year-old forward made only 13 appearances in the red and black jersey and failed to score a goal.
Last season, the South African enjoyed a spell with Ligue 2 side RC Lens, scoring once in 12 games.
Contract terminated
With only one goal to his name during his three years in France, Erasmus now becomes a free agent.
“Rennes F.C. and Kermit Erasmus have terminated the contract that linked them since January 2016,” Stade Rennais tweeted about his exit.
“The player is therefore free from any commitment. The Red & Black wish him a full success and a lot of happiness for the rest of his career.”
However, Erasmus’ chances of finding a new club are limited, as FIFA rules stipulate that a player can’t move to a league whose transfer window was closed before the player became a free agent.
This means that Erasmus can look for a club in countries such as Turkey or Sweden, whose transfer windows are still open, but cannot return to South Africa or any other country where the window closed on January 31.
The striker could have to wait until June to sign for another team.
According to BBC Sport, Erasmus has received offers from South African and European clubs.
Since making his international debut in 2010, Erasmus has won 14 caps for the South Africa national football team, scoring twice.