Orlando Pirates are reportedly making moves in the January transfer window, with Durban City left-central defender Mfanafuthi Mkhize emerging as a key target. This potential acquisition comes as the Buccaneers look to address a tactical need in their squad.
The Tactical Need: A Left-Footed Centre-Back
The pursuit of Mkhize, who has made 17 appearances and scored two goals this season for the newly promoted Citizens, is seen as a like-for-like replacement for Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who is reportedly heading to Chicago Fire in the MLS.
The key factor driving Pirates’ interest is Mkhize’s left-footedness. Modern football highly values a left-footed central defender for several tactical advantages, including:
- Improved Build-up Play: Offering better passing angles to initiate attacks from the back.
- Tactical Balance: Providing natural defensive cover on the left flank.
- Progressive Football: Facilitating easier progression of play and control against high presses.
The current first-team central defensive options—Lebone Seema and Nkosinathi Sibisi—are all right-footed. Furthermore, three other defenders (Olisa Ndah, Thabiso Sesane, and Tapelo Xoki) are currently unavailable due to long-term injuries or recovery from a motor vehicle crash, leaving the squad thin for match-sharp options, especially a left-footer. Even the club’s promising DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) reserves lack natural left-footed centre-backs.
The Current Status
- A source told The Citizen that Pirates approached Durban City regarding Mkhize around the time Mbokazi’s move to the US was first reported.
- If the deal is finalized, Mkhize would be the second January signing for Orlando Pirates, following Andre de Jong.
Mkhize’s football journey includes time in the Golden Arrows DDC team, experience at Uthongathi and Royal Eagles in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, and a spell at AmaZulu, before establishing himself in the Betway Premiership with Durban City.
