Orlando Pirates could be heading for a busy spell in the transfer market, with Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi reportedly on the verge of leaving the club while the Buccaneers continue to be linked with several potential reinforcements.
Maswanganyi’s possible departure is arguably the biggest surprise, particularly after the midfielder made an impressive start to the new season.
Maswanganyi set for Pirates exit?
The 28-year-old was unexpectedly left out of the Pirates squad for their 1-0 MTN8 semi-final first-leg win over Sekhukhune United.
Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou confirmed that Maswanganyi was available and not injured, but declined to provide further details about his absence.
That response has fuelled speculation surrounding the midfielder’s future.
SABC Sport has since reported that Maswanganyi is closing in on a move to Bahrain, with Pirates reportedly in advanced discussions with an unnamed club affiliated with the Asian Football Confederation.
Neither Maswanganyi nor Orlando Pirates has publicly confirmed a completed transfer, but the midfielder’s omission has added weight to the growing exit rumours.
Why would Pirates let Tito go?
Maswanganyi’s potential departure would come as a surprise given his importance to the Buccaneers since joining the club.
There have also been reports of tension between the player and Ouaddou, although neither party has publicly confirmed those claims.
If the Bahrain move is completed, Pirates would lose an experienced attacking midfielder just weeks into the new campaign.
Matuludi emerges as a possible target
While one player could be heading out, Pirates may also be looking to strengthen their squad.
Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi has reportedly emerged as a potential target.
The defender’s apparent absence from Polokwane City’s recent activities has generated speculation that his future could lie elsewhere.
Pirates’ decision to part ways with Deano van Rooyen could also create room for another right-back, making Matuludi an intriguing option as the club reshapes its defensive options.
Bayern Munich interest in Witbooi?
Another name generating interest is teenage prospect Emile Witbooi.
The highly rated youngster has been linked with Orlando Pirates, but reports indicate that he could instead be heading overseas for trials with Bayern Munich.
That would represent a major opportunity for the young attacker and could complicate Pirates’ hopes of securing his services.
Pirates transfer picture
The Buccaneers therefore face an interesting few days.
- Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi — reportedly closing in on a move to Bahrain.
- Thabang Matuludi — linked with Pirates as a potential right-back addition.
- Emile Witbooi — reportedly attracting interest from Bayern Munich.
- Deano van Rooyen — has already parted ways with Pirates.
With the transfer window still providing plenty of movement, Pirates could see both arrivals and departures before their squad takes its final shape.
The biggest question remains: will Tito Maswanganyi really leave Orlando Pirates after such a promising start to the season?
