Orlando Pirates Snatch Top Talent from Under Kaizer Chiefs’ Nose

Orlando Pirates look poised to pull off a significant transfer coup. They are beating arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs to the signing of Masindi Nemtajela, one of the most promising midfield talents in local football. The Buccaneers are closing in on a deal that could see them edge ahead of their Soweto counterparts in this highly competitive transfer window.

Soweto Giants Clash Over Shared Transfer Targets

As is common during the off-season, both Chiefs and Pirates are eyeing several of the same players. In previous windows, the two giants were linked with moves for the likes of Oswin Appollis and Thabang Matuludi from Polokwane City. They were also interested in Sinoxolo Kwayiba of Chippa United. Another name frequently mentioned in this tug-of-war is Fawaaz Basadien, a player also attracting interest from Mamelodi Sundowns.

Now, attention has turned to Marumo Gallants’ midfielder, Masindi Nemtajela. Chiefs had been eager to secure the player’s signature and were reportedly making aggressive moves to seal the deal. However, it’s Pirates who are believed to have won the race, according to Soccer-Laduma sources.

Orlando Pirates Seal the Deal for Nemtajela

Nemtajela, who hails from Soweto, is said to have agreed terms with Pirates on a three-year contract. Insiders close to the negotiations suggest that the agreement is all but finalised. He will join the club ahead of their pre-season preparations.

Sources within the club have confirmed that the Buccaneers’ recruitment team played a crucial role in identifying and pursuing the midfielder. “It wasn’t necessarily about the coach,” one insider revealed. “The scouts felt Nemtajela brought something different to our current midfield options. That was the basis for the signing.”

The reported contract will see Nemtajela tied to the Houghton-based club from July 2025 through to June 2028.

A Strategic Move Amid Midfield Overhaul

The timing of this deal aligns with a broader midfield overhaul underway at Orlando Pirates. With the exit of veteran midfielder Miguel Timm, there’s a clear intent to bring in fresh energy and new tactical dimensions. Kwayiba has already been roped in. Additionally, Nemtajela’s arrival is expected to further bolster the squad in that department.

A second insider indicated that Nemtajela is being groomed as a direct replacement for Timm. “The technical team and scouts wanted someone to fill that gap and Nemtajela ticks the right boxes. The deal has essentially been done.”

Having joined Marumo Gallants when they were still competing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, Nemtajela featured prominently in his first season. He carried that momentum into the Betway Premiership, playing a key role in their campaign. His performances have clearly not gone unnoticed by the top clubs in the country.

Building for the Future

The capture of Nemtajela underlines Pirates’ long-term strategy as they seek to build a competitive squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts. Bringing in a young, versatile midfielder on a lengthy deal demonstrates a commitment to squad stability and tactical evolution.

Interestingly, this transfer may also mark a shift in Pirates’ approach to squad building. There is increased emphasis on scouting and recruitment over coach-led decisions. With the club still expected to make more moves in the window, this successful hijack of a Chiefs target could set the tone for a very productive off-season.

As both Soweto giants continue to circle the same targets, Pirates have landed the first major blow. They have secured a player they believe can redefine their midfield for seasons to come.

Also read: Kaizer Chiefs Intensify Mayele Pursuit After Coach Nabi’s Egypt Trip