Orlando Pirates have denied media reports that they are on the verge of signing Nigerian star, Christantus Ejike Uzoenyi, but Siya sources understand that Mamelodi Sundowns are closing in on the player.

Pirates' denials come after reports that the talented left winger was on the verge of sealing a deal with the Buccaneers following his impressive performances for the Super Eagles in the recently completed Chan tournament.

It is believed that Pirates have tabled a two-year deal for Ejike, but Pirates PRO Mickey Modisane denies that the case.

“No, it’s not true that we have tabled an offer for the Nigerian player. We don’t have any new players in the team,” Modisane told the Siya crew.

Meanwhile, Siya sources have also confirmed that Mamelodi Sundowns are highly interested in signing the player.

The Nigerian Tribune also linked the big-spending Pretoria side with Ejike, saying that Sundowns wanted the player to sign immediately, however the two parties are yet to agree on a deal.

Ejike, who was voted the 2014 Chan Player of the Tournament, did not return with the rest of the Super Eagles squad on Sunday night, adding weight to speculation that he is locked in negotiations with either Pirates or Sundowns.