Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United to swap midfielders?

Orlando Pirates are already planning for the next season, with both incomings and outgoings in focus.

Pirates made a number of signings during the off-season, as well as the January transfer window. 

They signed  Melusi Buthelezi from TS Galaxy, Siphelo Baloni from All Stars FC and Katlego Otladisa from Marumo Gallants. They were joined by Karim Kimvuidi, Lesedi Kapinga and Patrick Maswanganyi. Then, in January, Pirates added the duo of Thabiso Lebitso and Thalenthe Mbatha. In January, stalwart Thembinkosi Lorch and Bienvenu Eva Nga both left the club for Mamelodi Sundowns and Chippa United respectfully. 

Those players are expected to be followed out of the exit door by a few more, in the coming window. The likes of Zakhele Lepasa, Souaibou Marou, Sandile Mthethwa, among those touted for an exit. Another name that could enter that list soon is goalkeeper Richard Ofori. It has also since emerged that Thabang Monare could be exiting the club.

According to Soccer-Laduma, SuperSport United are interested in Monare but is yet to sign a Pirates extension. 

Is SuperSport interested in Monare?

“It would be a reunion of player and former coach as Monare played under Gavin Hunt at BidVest Wits. I think it’s him who is influencing the move as well. That would actually be a good move for SuperSport United as they need more experienced players at the team. They have more youngsters who need guidance and they feel Thabang (Monare) could add that value to the team,” said one source. 

Another source says the fact that Monare’s contract is running out Pirates is a plus to SuperSport. 

Mbatha to Pirates?

“By 30th June he will be a free agent and if all goes well that would mean SuperSport United could get him as a free agent. But as it stands now there is no new deal agreed upon yet between Pirates and Monare which means SuperSport United would get him for free at the end of the season,” said the source.

In an interesting situation, Pirates and SuperSport could find themselves swapping midfielders. Thalente Mbatha is expected to sign on permanently at the Bucs, while Monare could go to Matsatsantsa.