Msimango

Given Msimango of TS Galaxy. Photo: Charle Lombard/BackpagePix

Pirates and Chiefs set for bidding war over TS Galaxy star?

Chiefs and Pirates could be set for a real battle in their reported pursuit of TS Galaxy star Spiwe ‘Given’ Msimango.

Msimango

Given Msimango of TS Galaxy. Photo: Charle Lombard/BackpagePix

*Note: This is an updated article on the links between Msimango and the Soweto giants

Last year it was reported that Msimango had been sounded out by Chiefs as they considered their player options for this season, but ultimately a move never materialised.

At a time when TS Galaxy are facing financial issues, though, there is currently increasing talk that the club would still accept the sale of their club captain, with Orlando Pirates also said to be monitoring Msimango.

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In an ‘exclusive’ on Goal.com, it’s reported that both Soweto giants are still interested in the 25-year-old player ahead of the next transfer window.

“Chiefs and Pirates are both keen admirers of Given,” a source told GOAL. “The club (Galaxy) is anticipating bids from clubs interested in the player as we approach the transfer window.”

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There is no doubt that Orlando Pirates have shown signs of progress this season under new coach José Riveiro, but for a club of this stature, the Buccaneers will want to continue building a squad capable of contenting for the league title in the near future. The same of course could be said for Kaizer Chiefs.

In the latest edition of Soccer Laduma, it was also stated that Galaxy would listen to any offer for Msimango as they could cash in, considering his contract runs until 2025.

Last year TS Galaxy looked to secure the 25-year-old’s future by extending his contract through to June 2025, and so it remains to be seen whether Chiefs or Pirates would really be willing to pay a hefty transfer fee.

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Plenty of reports continue to follow Msimango

TS Galaxy have been in financial turmoil

Issues over unpaid salaries at TS Galaxy have recently been addressed at an explosive crisis meeting, but there is no doubt that such financial woes could lead to player exits.

As reported by SABC Sport last month, SAFPU Vice-President Tebogo Munyai confirmed that reports of TS Galaxy failing to recently pay some of its players’ salaries has now reached their office.

At a time when at least six players are said to have gone without a salary for the past two months, there has been blatant expenditure in other areas, such as a trip to Turkey where friendly matches were played, while there was the purchase of the status for a women’s team in the Super League.

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Time Sukazi has sought to downplay the alleged issue, but it’s since come to light that a meeting last Wednesday was held with team manager – Njabulo Sukazi – who is the daughter of the chairman, and coach Sead Ramovic.

Tim Sukazi was not present as players sought answers.

However, attempts were made to the defuse the situation, with Njabulo stating: “The reason why they (Tim Sukazi and club bosses) are not here today to come address you, it’ not that they don’t find it important. But they want to receive these funds to help you by today. I know they have been saying they will help since last month. It’s not easy to raise R1-million just like that, but they are trying. It’s not like they want you to not feed your families,” the team manager added. 

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Pirates and Chiefs are currently level on log points in the DStv Premiership

Chiefs and Pirates hunting a second-place finish. Photo: Flashscore