Orlando Pirates are already shifting focus toward squad rebuilding and reinforcement, even after wrapping up a landmark 2025/26 season in which the club secured a rare domestic treble.
The Soweto giants are reportedly preparing for another aggressive transfer window as they aim to maintain dominance in South African football.
Although several deals have already been completed behind the scenes, official announcements are expected only when the transfer window opens on July 1.
Mthiyane Deal Signals Midfield Transition Strategy
One of the most notable moves linked to the club is the reported acquisition of Mthetheleli Mthiyane from Stellenbosch FC.
The 25-year-old defensive midfielder is expected to arrive as part of a long-term restructuring plan in the heart of Pirates’ midfield.
Club insiders suggest Mthiyane is being lined up as a successor to veteran midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula, whose experience has been central to the team in recent seasons.
Pirates’ continued recruitment from Stellenbosch is not new, with Sihle Nduli having already joined from the same club last season, reinforcing a growing pipeline between the two sides.
Ndlovu Emerges as Key Winger Target in Attacking Revamp
Golden Arrows winger Siyanda Ndlovu has also emerged as a strong transfer target.
The 2025/26 campaign saw him enjoy a breakout season, contributing four goals and eight assists across 31 appearances, making him one of the most productive wide players outside the traditional top clubs.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Pirates view Ndlovu as a potential long-term replacement for Relebohile Mofokeng, who is increasingly linked with a move to European football.
Should the transfer materialise, it would mark another step in Pirates’ strategy of securing young, high-potential domestic talent before they move abroad.
Ngwato Scouted as Future Investment Option
Another name on the Buccaneers’ radar is Siwelele FC youngster Bohlale Ngwato.
Although his first-team opportunities have been limited, the winger is believed to have impressed Pirates’ recruitment team through his performances at youth and development level.
The club is reportedly considering him as a developmental signing, with the intention of gradually integrating him into the senior squad rather than expecting immediate impact.
Mbule Exit Confirmed After Short-Term Spell
While new arrivals are being lined up, departures are also shaping the squad’s future direction.
Midfielder Sipho Mbule is expected to leave the club after the Buccaneers opted not to extend his one-year contract.
Mbule’s short stint at the club has now come to an end, despite his status as a Bafana Bafana international and his high-profile arrival last season.
His exit forms part of a broader squad reshuffle aimed at balancing experience with long-term planning.
Lebitso Swap Deal Could Reshape Defensive Options
Defender Thabiso Lebitso is another player linked with an exit, with reports suggesting he could be included in a possible swap deal involving Stellenbosch FC.
Under the proposed arrangement, Mthiyane would move to Orlando Pirates while Lebitso heads in the opposite direction to the Cape Winelands side.
If completed, the deal would underline the increasingly active transfer relationship between the two clubs and further reshape Pirates’ defensive depth ahead of the new campaign.
