The PSL transfer window is heating up, and Orlando Pirates aren't holding back. They've made headlines by signing Sipho Mbule, a talented but controversial midfielder formerly with Mamelodi Sundowns. It's a gamble that could pay off big time for the Buccaneers.
Mbule spent three years at Sundowns after joining from SuperSport United in 2022. Despite his off-field issues, the 27-year-old is widely regarded as one of South Africa's most gifted midfielders. If Pirates can help him reach his potential, they might finally end their title drought.
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs are raiding their Soweto rivals. They're reportedly bringing in fullbacks Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane from Pirates. Talk about adding salt to the wound!
Chiefs have already confirmed three signings: midfielder Ethan Chislett from Port Vale, Portuguese striker Flávio Silva from Persebaya Surabaya, and left-back Nkanyiso Shinga from Alverca. Silva's arrival is crucial as Amakhosi desperately need someone who can put the ball in the net.
Sundowns Preparing for Changes
Mamelodi Sundowns, fresh off their FIFA Club World Cup campaign, are expected to make moves soon. New head coach Miguel Cardoso will have his first proper transfer window to shape the squad.
The defending champions have already released defender Rivaldo Coetzee and centre-back Lucas Suárez. Several key players including Khuliso Mudau and Peter Shalulile have contracts expiring, creating uncertainty around the squad.
Golden Boot winner Lucas Ribeiro Costa continues to attract European interest after impressing in the Club World Cup. Sundowns are also reportedly leading the race for Stellenbosch and Bafana Bafana left-back Fawaaz Basadien.
Young Talents and Free Agents to Watch
Two Pirates wingers are generating buzz for different reasons. Relebohile Mofokeng, the 20-year-old who caught Barcelona's eye, continues to attract European interest. Meanwhile, Monnapule Saleng might be on his way out after falling out with management.
SuperSport United's young defender Ime Okon has secured the biggest move outside the big three. The 21-year-old has joined German side Hannover 96 on a contract until 2029.
Free agents are also making waves. Percy Tau, formerly with Al Ahly, has indicated he's open to offers from any club, despite his Sundowns connections. Ethan Brooks, a highly-rated 24-year-old midfielder who left AmaZulu, is another name to watch.
With the new season approaching, bettors should pay close attention to these transfers. Pirates' aggressive spending could finally make them genuine title contenders, potentially offering value in outright betting markets that have been dominated by Sundowns for years.
After one of the most dramatic seasons in memory, which saw Royal AM expelled and Cape Town City relegated, the Betway Premiership landscape is changing rapidly. Smart punters will track how these squad changes impact the balance of power.
