Orlando Pirates latest | ‘Shock signing’ starts training with Bucs – report

A ‘shock’ Orlando Pirates signing has reportedly started training with his teammates at the Rand Stadium ahead of the opening of the upcoming transfer window.

Goalkeeper King Ndlovu is reported to have been introduced to his new Pirates teammates last Saturday following a surprise move to Mayfair.

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According to a Daily Sun source, Ndlovu arrived at Pirates last week to complete what is expected to be a three-year deal.

The 28-year-old recently parted ways with Black Leopards, meaning Pirates signed him on a free transfer although the goalkeeper denied reports that he was on his way to the Soweto giants.

“He was introduced to all the players and coaching staff on Saturday. He will be joining a credible team of Pirates goalkeepers, but he is only eligible to play next season, according to football rules after his registration,” said the source.

Ndlovu’s signing would come as a major shock to the majority of Pirates fans, especially after a number of goalkeepers were linked with the club.

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Siyabonga Mbatha of AmaZulu and Baroka FC goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluke are some of the shot-stoppers reported to be on the Pirates radar.

With Richard Ofori out injured, Josef Zinnbauer has had to improvise in the goalkeeping department by rotating both Wayne Sandilands and Siyabonga Mpontshane.  

In April, Zinnbauer faced a goalkeeping crisis when Mpontshane had to be stretchered off the pitch against ES Setif in the CAF Confederation Cup – and Bucs’ DStv Diski Challenge team ‘keeper Elson Sithole had to train with the first team.

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Now, with Ndlovu (28) coming on board ahead of next season, Pirates will certainly have enough depth to deal with injury and suspension challenges in their goalkeeping department.