Minnesota United has signed midfielder Bongokuhle Hlongwane to a new, three-year contract through 2027, with a club option for 2028, the Loons announced Saturday. “I’m grateful to be a part of this amazing team again; it means a lot to me and my family,” Hlongwane said in a statement. “I can’t wait to continue playing in front our fans, and I hope for more joy and success.” Hlongwane joined United in January 2021 and has scored 30 goals over 108 game appearances, including Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and Leagues Cup games. He has played more than 6,300 minutes combined in 95 MLS games and is second in MNUFC’s MLS history for goals scored, behind only Robin Lod’s 32. Hlongwane no longer occupies a U22 Initiative slot on MNUFC’s roster. “Since his arrival, Bongi has continued to improve his game and has had a positive impact to the team when it came to his success on and off of the field,” Chief Soccer Officer Khaled El-Ahmad said in a statement. “His new contract is a testament to Minnesota and MLS, and our club looks forward to seeing his continued growth and work ethic contribute to the success of our upcoming year and beyond.” Hlongwane made his national team debut in 2019 and has scored four goals in 18 appearances. He scored his first international goal in 2021 against Uganda, and scored the game-winning goal against Ghana in a World Cup Qualifier. Related Articles Minnesota United FC | A few Minnesota United transfer targets come to light Minnesota United FC | How Minnesota United plans to improve its roster this winter Minnesota United FC | Teemu Pukki’s time with Loons nearing the end Minnesota United FC | Minnesota United: Adrian Heath opens up about his firing and looks back on his career Minnesota United FC | Loons striker Kelvin Yeboah moves on from ‘painful’ exit in MLS Cup Playoffs