Orlando Pirates are still pushing to sign Thabo Moloisane from Stellenbosch FC, despite ongoing challenges in securing a deal for the highly-rated centre-back.
As previously reported by the Siya crew, Pirates have been monitoring the 26-year-old for some time as they look to bolster their defensive depth ahead of the new season.
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Sources close to the club have now confirmed that the Buccaneers have not given up hope of luring the Bafana Bafana international to Orlando.
“Pirates are still very much in for Moloisane,” a source told the Siya crew.
“They are aware of his contract situation and are waiting to see how things unfold with Stellenbosch. He is one of the main targets,” the source added.
As part of the observations made during their overseas pre-season tour, Pirates are believed to be finalising squad adjustments with an emphasis on strengthening the central defence. While the club has been linked with a number of options abroad and locally, Moloisane is viewed as a natural fit due to his composure and PSL experience.
The Stellenbosch defender’s contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025/26 season, and although Stellies have expressed their desire to keep him, it is believed that the Cape Winelands side could lose him due to interest from “bigger clubs.”
Meanwhile, Moloisane's standout 2024/25 campaign earned him a nomination for the PSL Defender of the Season award, highlighting just how impactful he was for Stellenbosch during their top-four finish.
His consistency, leadership at the back, and calmness in possession have made him one of the most sought-after defenders in the local game.
The defender also broke into the Bafana Bafana setup, further increasing his profile and market value heading into the final year of his contract.
With the new season fast approaching, the ball may now be in Stellenbosch’s court. Pirates are believed to be keeping a close eye on how contract negotiations progress, and there’s a possibility of a pre-contract if an agreement isn’t reached soon.
Whether Stellies opt to cash in now or risk losing him for free remains to be seen – but what is clear is that Pirates are ready to make a move if the opportunity opens.
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Soccer Laduma has contacted Pirates for comment and will publish their official comment once received.
Meanwhile, stay with Soccer Laduma for more on this developing transfer story and the latest updates from the PSL.
