Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates prepare to battle fiercely in the South African transfer market to reshape their squads for next season

It’s that time of year again in South African football—the transfer window buzz is heating up, and the country’s biggest clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, are ready to hit the market hard.

But this time around, the stakes are even higher, and both teams are heading into a new era with plenty of change on the horizon.

Chiefs and Pirates Enter a New Chapter

Next season will be a major reset for both Soweto giants.

For Kaizer Chiefs, it’s the start of a fresh journey under new head coach Nasreddine Nabi, as they gear up for continental football in Africa.

Meanwhile, the Orlando Pirates are bracing themselves for life without long-serving manager Jose Riveiro.

With both clubs setting new directions, squad overhauls are expected—and that means fierce competition in the transfer market.

The Same Targets Once Again

It’s become something of a tradition: when the transfer window opens, Chiefs and Pirates often find themselves chasing the same talent.

This year looks no different. Both teams have been reportedly keeping tabs on a familiar group of local stars.

Among those names are Oswin Appollis and his Polokwane City teammate Thabang Matuludi. Chippa United’s Sinoxolo Kwayiba has also popped up on their radar.

Then there’s Fawaaz Basadien, a standout player Mamelodi Sundowns are also monitoring.

And don’t forget about Marumo Gallants’ Masindi Nemtajela—another hot property both Chiefs and Pirates are reportedly eyeing.

Etiosa Ighodaro Sparks New Bidding War

But perhaps the most intriguing name in the mix now is Nigerian striker Etiosa Ighodaro.

The former AmaZulu frontman, who was on loan from Sundowns, could now be available on a free transfer—and suddenly, both Chiefs and Pirates are back in the conversation.

Just last week, reports surfaced linking Chiefs to Ighodaro again.

Now, according to Soccer-Laduma, the Buccaneers have officially thrown their hat into the ring too.

Pirates Join the Chase for the Nigerian Striker

A source close to the situation told Soccer-Laduma that Ighodaro has attracted interest from several clubs beyond just Chiefs.

“There are local teams apart from Kaizer Chiefs who are also interested in him,” the insider revealed.

“AmaZulu have already spoken to Sundowns and the player’s camp because they want to keep him.

But now Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United have also reached out.

At this point, it will all come down to which club can put together the best offer.”

So now, it’s more than just a two-horse race—it’s a full-on scramble.

Who Needs Ighodaro More?

That’s the big question, isn’t it? Chiefs need more firepower up front to make an impact in continental competitions.

But Pirates, looking to start strong in a new managerial era, could also use a proven striker like Ighodaro to lead their frontline.

Both sides have solid reasons for wanting him, but only one will likely win the battle.