Was Pirates’ new signing overlooked by Chiefs?

On Tuesday, Pirates officially welcomed the signings of Sephelo Baloni (Cape Town All Stars), Katlego Otladisa (Marumo Gallants), Melusi Buthelezi (TS Galaxy) and Patrick Maswanganyi (SuperSport United).

The signing of Maswanganyi was a surprise to many as there weren’t many suggestions to previously indicate that he was on the recruitment radar of Pirates.

However, after receiving prolific game-time for SuperSport this past season in the DStv Premiership, the Buccaneers clearly spotted something in the 25-year-old left-winger.

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Interestingly, though, it’s now been revealed by KickOff.com that he could have ended up at Chiefs last year if the club had been interested.

“Maswanganyi was offered to Chiefs before he could sign for SuperSport. They spoke to coach Arthur Zwane several times with no success,” a source is quoted as saying.

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Maswanganyi is now already with Pirates and will form part of the pre-season preparations, with the Soweto giants having completed some nifty business in securing the signatures of these players.

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PIRATES HAVE OFFICIALLY BID FAREWELL TO A HANDFUL OF PLAYERS

Meanwhile, as Pirates have welcomed some players into the team ranks, they have also bid farewell to others..

The club has confirmed the departures of Ntsako Makhubela, Craig Martin, Nkanyiso Zungu, Kopano Thuntsane and Ndumiso Mabena.

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Meanwhile, Pirates are still on the hunt for more signings, and it was recently reported that the Buccaneers could be eyeing Golden Arrows defender Sicelo Hlatshwayo after a solid season for the KZN club.

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Although it’s clear that Pirates are casting their net far and wide before narrowing it down to viable signings, it’s suggested that an official offer has now been made.

“Transfermarkt understands that Orlando Pirates have offered a players plus cash deal to Lamontville Golden Arrows for the services of defender, Sicelokuhle Hlatshwayo,” a report stated on Tuesday.

Apparently the ball is now in the court of Arrows to see whether they will accept the offer. Watch this space…

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