Orlando Pirates may have made a bold statement of intent by signing no fewer than 10 players so far in this transfer window, but insiders believe the club might not be done just yet.
The Buccaneers have already confirmed the arrivals of Sipho Mbule, Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Yanela Mbuthuma, Masindi Nemtajela, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Tshepo Mashiloane, Sihle Nduli and Kamogelo Sebelebele, strengthening the squad across various departments.
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But with the transfer window only set to close on 22 September, speculation persists that the Soweto giants are still monitoring the market and could strike again.
According to Siya sources, while the core of Pirates’ pre-season squad has returned from the Spain tour, a few noticeable omissions have left the door open for potential movement in both directions.
The likes of Zakhele Lepasa, Katlego Otladisa and Angolan international Gilberto were all absent from the European training camp, sparking suggestions that they may be heading for the exit door – permanently or on loan.
Should any of those potential departures materialise, it could free up space in the squad for one or two final additions, with Pirates determined to strengthen further as they look to compete seriously across all fronts – including the Betway Premiership, CAF competitions, and domestic cups.
Adding to the uncertainty is the ongoing speculation around Relebohile Mofokeng, one of the club’s most promising young talents.
It has been widely reported that there is serious interest from abroad in the 20-year-old, although the club has remained tight-lipped on the nature or progress of any potential talks.
If Pirates do part ways with Mofokeng before the window closes, it could trigger a last-minute push for a creative replacement in the final third – either domestically or from outside the country.
While the bulk of business appears to be done, a trusted source close to the situation told Soccer Laduma:
“With the transfer window open until late September, don’t be surprised if there’s another addition or two. It will depend on outgoings and how the technical team assesses the balance of the squad coming out of pre-season,” said the source.
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The club’s activity so far reflects a clear intent to refresh and restructure, especially under the new technical leadership following a disappointing end to the previous campaign.
But in true Pirates fashion, the possibility of a late swoop or surprise signing can never be ruled out.
Photo by Orlando Pirates on X.
