Orlando Pirates interested in Chippa’s ‘Messi’ – report

Orlando Pirates and Chippa United have done plenty of business in recent years and, according to Soccer Laduma, that is likely to continue, with the Soweto giants eyeing another Chilli Boy in Tebogo Tlolane.

Nicknamed “Messi”, the player was part of the Buccaneers development side, Yebo Yes United in his teenage years, and spent some time at Jomo Cosmos before resurfacing in the top flight with Chippa at the start of this season.

The 24-year-old left-back has operated mainly in the midfield this season, bagging three goals in 20 league appearances – one of them coming against his old side in a 4-2 defeat at Orlando Stadium last month.

Rulani Mokwena “interested” in bringing Tebogo Tlolane to Pirates

His exploits have not gone unnoticed, and Parable Hlatshwayo who, according to Soccer Laduma, knows the player from his time at Yebo Yes says Pirates assistant coach, Rulani Mokwena has identified Tlolane as a possible addition to the Buccaneers.

“The player is still contracted to Chippa, but Rhulani Mokwena knows the boy well, and he is the one who is keen on luring him to Pirates,” he said.

The possible move has, however, been refuted by Chippa CEO Morgan Mammila, who told the publication Pirates had not approached his club.

The connection between Orlando Pirates and Chippa United

Should the move materialise, Tlolane will follow the likes of Paseka Mako, Innocent Maela and Diamond Thopola, who have made Orlando Pirates home, having been signed from Chippa United.

A few other players have moved the opposite direction, most notably Thabo Rakhale, Brighton Mhlongo and Gladwin Shitolo, who is currently with the Chili Boys on loan, having spent the first half of the season warming up the bench at the Buccaneers.

Other former Pirates players who are turning out for the PE-based club include veteran midfielders, Mark Mayambela and Daine Klate.