RUMOUR: Orlando Pirates beat Chiefs to free transfer playmaker target
Orlando Pirates are looking to bolster their options in the final third. Today’s rumours indicate they’re keen on a player who almost signed for Kaizer Chiefs in 2022.
Orlando Pirates are keen on Stellies’ Mgaga
According to SoccerLaduma, Orlando Pirates have expressed interest in Stellenbosch playmaker Nhlanhla Mgaga. Soweto Rivals Kaizer Chiefs reportedly tried to sign him in 2022. However, the player and his camp felt a move to the Cape Winelands was a better option. Mgaga featured 26 times in the league for Steve Barker’s side in the season just completed. The 28-year-old’s contract expires this month after Stellies didn’t exercise an extension option. He’d be available on a free transfer.
“With interest mounting in his services after recently becoming a free agent, Orlando Pirates are believed to be making headway in the pursuit of Nhlanhla Mgaga. The Siya crew recently reported that Pirates as well as Kaizer Chiefs have expressed an interest in the Stellenbosch playmaker. Now, the latest update regarding the 27-year-old’s future is that Pirates are currently leading the race for his signature. According to well-placed Siya sources, the Buccaneers have signalled their intent to land the former Baroka man and further strengthen coach Jose Riveiro’s side ahead of the 2024/25 season. Indications are that Mgaga could well end up being a Pirates player in the near future,” wrote the publication.
MAKHAULA SIGNS NEW BUCS DEAL
In a week of relative upheaval for the club which has seen Marou released and assistant coach Sergio Almenara announce his departure, there’s some more reassuring news for Bucs fans. 34-year-old midfield general Makhehlene Makhaula is going nowhere and is expected to sign a new contract in the coming weeks. He said as much In an interview with Robert Marawa on 947 on Monday.
After initially struggling to nail down a place when he arrived in January 2023, the former AmaZulu man has gradually become more important. He lends stability and balance at the base of midfield. Recently, his partnership with Thalente Mbatha in the engine room has been the preferred combination for Jose Riveiro in the latter weeks of the season as Miguel Timm battled injuries.
Half a dozen exits on the horizon?
According to SoccerLaduma sources, Kermit Erasmus, Siyabonga Mpontshane, Bandile Shandu, Bongani Sam, Thabang Monare and Fortune Makaringe are all primed to leave the club.
“The club is pleased with the season that has been completed and will be aiming for improvement going forward. As has been the norm in the previous seasons, it has reached that time where important decisions will be made on player contracts and so on, and that’s what will be on the club’s agenda in the coming few weeks,” said the source.
Orlando Pirates striker Kermit Erasmus. Photo: iDiski Times
Who would be your dream signing in this winter window, Bucs fans?
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