As the new season approaches, Orlando Pirates appear to be leading the way in the transfer market, outpacing traditional rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs with a flurry of signings ahead of the 2025/26 campaign set to kick off in August.
Despite suffering heartbreak in the Nedbank Cup final at the hands of Kaizer Chiefs and falling short in the CAF Champions League semi-finals, the Buccaneers are showing no signs of slowing down. Instead, they’ve come back swinging—determined to build a squad capable of dominating on all fronts.
One of their biggest coups so far has been swooping in to sign Sipho Mbule, a free agent many believed was on his way to Naturena. The dramatic twist was confirmed on Wednesday with Pirates unveiling the talented midfielder.
READ | Sipho Mbule officially joins Soweto giants
But the Mbule deal is just the tip of the iceberg. The Sea Robbers made headlines again on Thursday after unveiling seven new signings—well ahead of the transfer window opening on July 1.
The impressive list includes:
- Sinoxolo Kwayiba (Chippa United)
- Tshepang Moremi (ex-AmaZulu)
- Sihle Nduli (Stellenbosch FC)
- Masindi Nemtajela (reuniting with former coach Abdeslam Ouaddou)
- Tshepo Mashiloane (Baroka FC)
- Yanela Mbuthuma and Nkosikhona Ndaba (Richards Bay FC duo)
While Sundowns have been focused on their Club World Cup duties, they are expected to re-enter the market swiftly upon their return to Mzansi. They’re currently linked with a potential move for Pyramids FC striker Fiston Mayele, a proven goal machine.
Kaizer Chiefs, meanwhile, are quietly making moves of their own. They’ve reportedly secured 26-year-old midfielder Ethan Chislett, and former Pirates pair Thabiso Monyane and Paseka Mako are said to have joined Amakhosi after exiting Mayfair.
READ | Downs star sidelined for crucial Fluminense tie?
Chiefs will head to the Netherlands for their pre-season camp from July 3 to 19, and are hoping to have some of their new signings included in the squad. Pirates, on the other hand, are preparing for another European tour—this time to Spain—with a marquee friendly lined up against English side Bolton Wanderers on July 11.
