A defensive reshuffle is looming at one of South Africa's most storied clubs, with sources indicating advanced negotiations for a promising left-back as the team looks to strengthen a position undergoing significant change.
With Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela potentially moving to a different role and limited depth in a key defensive position, the Soweto giants are believed to be closing in on one of several targets they've been monitoring.
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Bucs are still believed to be looking at reinforcing their left back position with Maela set to apparently take up a different role at the club and with only Paseka Mako and young Yanga Madiba in that position, they have been monitoring other options.
As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, Pirates have been monitoring and enquired about Sekhukhune United left back Vuyo Letlapa who is apparently also on Kaizer Chiefs' radar.
Now news coming out of the Houghton-based club is that they are believed to be in advanced talks for the signature of the former Jomo Cosmos defender.
"They are believed to be looking at two Stellenbosch FC left backs in Fawaaz Basadien and Omega Mdaka but those ones look more difficult and that's why they are believed to be intensifying talks for the Vuyo Letlapa possibility as things stand. Talks are believed to be at an advanced stage and looking good," the Siya source stated.
A second insider stated that there is a need to have damage control in case these moves don't work out, so the club is tying down young Madiba to the club for the long term.
"Apart from it being a short term solution, they are looking at Yanga (Madiba) as one for the future. But they are still looking at the possibilities of getting one of the three on the radar. Yes, there is always competition but things have their own way of working out," the second insider stated.
Letlapa joined Babina Noko at the start of the current season from Jomo Cosmos and apart from playing most games, the 21-year-old is believed to have also attracted interest from Europe.
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Soccer Laduma contacted Sekhukhune United for comment but there was no response at the time of publishing.
As the transfer window approaches, this potential acquisition highlights the Buccaneers' strategic planning for both immediate needs and future development. The pursuit of Letlapa amidst reported interest from rivals Chiefs and European clubs demonstrates Pirates' determination to secure top talent.
With Maela's positional change on the horizon and the club carefully developing young Madiba, how successfully they navigate this defensive transition could significantly impact their fortunes in the upcoming season. Supporters will be watching closely to see if the club can finalize the deal for the promising defender or if they'll turn to alternative targets.
