AmaZulu Bongani Sam

AmaZulu coach Pablo Franco Martin sidestepped queries regarding the club’s interest in Moroka Swallows duo Tshegofatso Mabasa and Bongani Sam. Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

PSL news: Pirates target parts ways with Celtic

With news of his departure from Bloem Celtic confirmed, Bongani Sam is reportedly set to be unveiled by Orlando Pirates.

AmaZulu Bongani Sam

AmaZulu coach Pablo Franco Martin sidestepped queries regarding the club’s interest in Moroka Swallows duo Tshegofatso Mabasa and Bongani Sam. Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Bloemfontein Celtic defender Bongani Sam has left the club, and is set to turn up in the colours of another outfit, KickOff reports.

The 22-year-old had a breakthrough season in the last campaign, resulting in a call-up to the Bafana squad for the 2019 Cosafa Cup tournament.

He has been linked with a move to Orlando Pirates, while also on the radar of their Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs.

Defender’s Celtic exit confirmed

Phunya Sele Sele chief executive Khumbulani Konco confirmed the player’s exit to the publication.

He is leaving. The club that he has signed for will make the announcement.”

Khumbulani Konco

The 2018/19 season saw Sam making his top flight debut in Celtic colours, having been instrumental in helping Highlands Park secure PSL promotion in the previous campaign.

Playing mostly from the left back position, the Stars of Africa Academy product featured in 24 matches across competitions for the Free State outfit, finding the net twice.

One of those goals was a decisive strike against Pirates, as he guided his now former side to a 1-0 win at the Free State Stadium.

How Bongani Sam could fit in at Pirates

Sam is one of at least four signings expected to be unveiled at the Buccaneers, with one of the rumoured recruits set to provide him with competition for a starting berth.

Among players linked with a move to Pirates, Chippa United defender Tebogo Tlolane is among those said to have already sealed a deal, and this could make for a three-way battle between himself, Sam and Bafana star Innocent Maela on the left side of the Pirates defence.

However, Tlolane’s versatility means he could be used in a more advanced role on the left wing, while Sam can also shift to the centre-back position, where he featured in two league games last season, keeping a clean sheet against eventual champs Mamelodi Sundowns.