Orlando Pirates now lead Kaizer Chiefs for their academy product!

Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates reportedly set to battle it out for a top midfield target, ahead of next season. 

Pirates are thought to have already secured two midfielders, while Chiefs could lose up to three before the season starts.

Both Chiefs and Pirates chasing Khiba

Pirates also released two midfielders, Fortune Makaringe and Thabang Monare. But they’re thought to have moved swiftly to replace the duo with Selaelo Rasebotja and Thalente Mbatha. The duo will are set to come in to boost a midfield department that already has stiff competition. For Chiefs on the other hand, they could be set to lose at two senior midfielders. These in the shape of Siyethemba Sithebe and George Matlou. 

The duo who arrived two seasons ago at Chiefs, are both out of contract at the end of the season.  They could then also send young Samkelo Zwane on loan and even sell Edson Castillo. Last week, this publication reported that they were eyeing their former academy product Thato Khiba as a midfield signing. It was thought that the race was between them and Stellenbosch FC, with Pirates falling out. 

Now according to iDiski Times, it’s in fact Pirates who lead Chiefs to Khiba, after his move to Stellenbosch collapsed! The publication claims that since the players move to the Cape Winelands fell through, the Sea Robbers are the ones who are monitoring his next move. 

Buccaneers take the lead?

While it seems dead in the water for Stellenbosch, Chiefs are also not mentioned as an interested party. When you look at what Pirates already has, it seems as if Khiba has a better chance playing for Amakhosi. It is also said, however, that Amakhosi are looking at SuperSport United’s Grant Margerman as well. 

Pirates could still sell or loan Sandile Mthethwa and Siphelo Baloni to make way for a possible deal. If you are Khiba, do you pick Chiefs or Pirates and why? Leave your comment below.