Orlando Pirates flop ends up at Soweto rivals ahead of next season!

Orlando Pirates announced the signings of four new players, as well as the departures of another  six, as they look reshape their squad for next season.

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Pirates announced the signings of Melusi Buthelezi, Sephelo Baloni, Katlego Otladisa, as well as the shock acquisition if Patrick Maswanganyi.

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Adding to that list are players the club did not make formal announcements of, which are Cebo Mchunu, a 21-year-old midfielder they signed from Bizana Pondo in the ABC Motsepe League. That was not their only purchase from the third division, however, as Dondol Stars confirmed they have released goalkeeper Siphamandla Gumede to Pirates on Monday. Both players are believed to be on the loan list, with the Buccaneers management looking to park them at either a club in the DStv Premiership or the Motsepe Foundation Championship for next season. 

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Making way for those new recruits at Pirates were the likes of Ntsako Makhubela, Craig Martin, Nkanyiso Zungu, Ndumiso Mabena, Kopano Thuntsane and Collins Makgakga. Martin has already signed for Chippa United, while Zungu played for Royal AM in the recent KZN Premier’s Cup, where he continues in his efforts to impress the coach. Mabena is thought to be on the radar of Polokwane City while Makgakga is thought to be close to joining Stellenbosch FC. 

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Makhubela is the latest former Pirates player to be spotted training at a new DStv Premiership side, after resurface at Soweto rivals Moroka Swallows. After not having the best time back at his former club, Makhubela went on loan to another former club in Golden Arrows. After impressing last season, it was thought that the player would sign for the club. However, according to Soccer-Laduma, he could be heading to the Dube Birds. 

Makhubela training with Swallows after Pirates release

“The crew understands that Makhubela has not officially put pen to paper with the Birds (Swallows) just yet although there are talks of a potential deal, with the player forming part of the club’s pre-season plans. Makhubela is a free agent and looks set to join the likes of Dumisani Zuma, Andile Jali, Daweron Van Rhyn, Lantshene Phalane, Keenan Phillips, Victor Bakah and Falakhe Tshanini who have fllocked to the Birds’ nest already.” Wrote the publication.

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Makhubela also worked with current Swallows coach Steve Komphela during his spell at Arrows and a reunion with his former coach could be just what he needs.