Orlando Pirates are preparing to loan out a defender as part of their strategy to manage the squad following the release of several players for the new season, the Siya crew has been informed.
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Siya sources close to the club have indicated that Sandile Mthethwa, is among those earmarked for a loan move.
Chippa United, where Mthethwa previously had a loan spell, and AmaZulu FC are reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
"There are tough decisions to be made this off season as far as player futures are concerned and one of those players is defender Sandile Mthethwa. They are planning on loaning him out and Chippa United are the ones on top of the list though AmaZulu FC are also interested as they have released some defenders and it will all depend on the talks with the interested teams," the Siya source stated.
A second insider explained the rationale behind the decision, highlighting the performance comparisons within the team.
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"At first they wanted to loan out Thabiso (Sesane) but now they are looking at other options because whenever he stepped up in the absence of the regular defenders he did very well and the technical team has apparently recommended that Sandile (Mthethwa) be loaned out," the second source stated.
Mthethwa's contract with Pirates is set to run until June 2026, based on the information received by these insiders. Despite his limited appearances last season, where he had played only three games and scored once, the idea to loan him out is seen as a strategic move to allow him more regular playing time and further development starting elsewhere.
It also reflects a broader strategy to optimize Bucs' squad for competitive challenges ahead. By allowing Mthethwa to gain experience and potentially thrive in a different setting, Pirates aim to foster his growth as a player while adjusting their defensive line-up to better meet the team's needs going forward.
Soccer Laduma contacted Pirates for comment but no response was received by the time this report was published.