Orlando Pirates are believed to be offering a long-term contract to a left-back, with the deal set to begin in July this year, the Siya crew has been informed.
Insiders close to both the player and the team have indicated that Pirates view Yanga Madiba as a future star, both for club and country.
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The 23-year-old, a product of Pirates’ youth development system, joined the team during their pre-season camp in Spain earlier this season.
"They have already made that decision. For now it's as good as done and it's believed to be a three-year contract which would apparently run from July this year until June 2028. He is still young and they want him to grow and gain experience while learning from the older players," the source told the Siya crew.
A second insider disclosed that Madiba is expected to be groomed as a long-term replacement for captain Innocent Maela, who is reportedly nearing the latter stages of his career with the Buccaneers.
"Yes, there are other left backs that the club is looking at to sign but they need to have their own development players in the squad as well just like other youngsters and that's why they have offered him a three-year contract which is as good as done which is good for both the club and the player," the second insider revealed.
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Madiba previously spent time on loan at Motsepe Foundation Championship side Orbit College, where he enjoyed a fair amount of games before returning to Pirates. He was part of the matchday squad on Sunday as Pirates edged Marumo Gallants 1-0 in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals at Orlando Stadium.
Soccer Laduma contacted Pirates on this story but no response was received by the time this report was published.
The young defender is part of Pirates' plan to integrate more youth development players into their squad, ensuring a balance between experienced professionals and rising talents.
The Siya crew has already reported how left back Paseka Mako is likely to stay at the club due to Maela's expected departure.
