The South African football off-season is heating up, and it’s not just about transfers—it’s about bragging rights.
Two of the country’s biggest clubs, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, are reportedly going head-to-head to sign a rising teenage talent who could be the next big thing in local football.
As both clubs look to refresh their squads ahead of the new campaign, one name is now firmly in the spotlight: Neo Rapoo.
Orlando Pirates Clear Space, Open Door for New Full-Backs
With a noticeable gap now emerging in their defense, Pirates are making moves to reinforce both of their full-back positions.
The club has recently parted ways with three defenders—Thabiso Monyane, Paseka Mako, and Innocent Maela (who has retired).
These exits mean Pirates are on the lookout for fresh blood, and Neo Rapoo fits the bill perfectly.
The 19-year-old full-back has already caught the eyes of the club’s scouting team, and it’s no surprise given his recent international success.
Chiefs Join the Chase for Neo Rapoo
However, Pirates aren’t alone in this pursuit. According to iDiski Times, Kaizer Chiefs have also entered the race for Rapoo’s signature.
Chiefs are eager to solve what’s become a long-standing issue in their squad—a reliable, future-proof option at left-back.
The competition is now fierce, with both Soweto giants reportedly keen to land the SuperSport United youngster before the new season kicks off.
Rapoo’s Stock on the Rise After International Success
Rapoo is not just another promising player.
He recently played a key role in helping South Africa’s U20 side win the Africa Cup of Nations, which has significantly raised his profile.
In fact, scouts from both Scandinavia and the Gulf have been watching him closely.
Still, it seems Chiefs and Pirates are leading the chase locally, and sources within SuperSport United—often nicknamed “Matsatsantsa”—confirm that both clubs are “seriously” pursuing him.
A Long-Term Investment for the National Team?
Rapoo isn’t just being seen as a solution for club issues—he’s widely regarded as a future regular in the senior national team setup.
Both Pirates and Chiefs know they’re not just signing a good left-back—they’re potentially securing the future of Bafana Bafana’s defense.
And with Pirates urgently needing to rebuild their full-back options and Chiefs desperately seeking to fix their defensive issues from past seasons, the timing for this transfer battle couldn’t be more intense.
Chiefs Also Scouting Bafana Goalkeeper
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly not stopping at Rapoo.
They’re also believed to be keeping an eye on one of Bafana Bafana’s current goalkeepers as part of a broader squad rebuild. So it’s clear the Amakhosi are serious about bouncing back stronger next season.
Percy Tau Drops Hint About Future With Pirates?
In an unrelated but intriguing twist, Percy Tau—former Sundowns and Brighton winger—has made headlines again, this time with a potential hint about joining Orlando Pirates.
After stints abroad, including at Anderlecht and most recently in Qatar, Tau’s name is now being linked with a return to South African football.
What’s Next for Rapoo?
With both Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates pushing hard to sign Neo Rapoo, the question remains—where will the 19-year-old choose to go? Will he be swayed by Pirates’ immediate need for a starting left-back, or will Chiefs’ long-term vision convince him?
Either way, this transfer race could set the tone for what’s already shaping up to be a blockbuster season in the Premier Soccer League.