When South Africa’s “Big Three” all line up for the same player, you know you are dealing with a special talent.
Polokwane City’s standout 27-year-old right-back, Thabang Matuludi, has officially become the hottest defensive property in the Betway Premiership. Originally linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs, the Bafana Bafana international has now firmly landed on the transfer radars of both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Anatomy of a Transfer Battle
Initially, Amakhosi made the first quiet inquiries about the dynamic fullback to solve their long-standing defensive transitional issues. However, the landscape has rapidly shifted:
- The Buccaneers’ Interest: Orlando Pirates are actively searching for elite defensive depth as they prepare to balance their local league defense with a heavily demanding CAF Champions League schedule.
- The Downs’ War Chest: Mamelodi Sundowns are always eager to snap up Bafana-caliber talent to bolster their dominant domestic and continental setups.
Currently valued at over R22 million according to Transfermarkt, the robust fullback offers an elite blend of recovery speed, raw power, and attacking vision down the right flank.
“I Am Here For Now” — Matuludi Reacts
Unphased by the mounting media speculation, Matuludi welcomed the links with cool, professional confidence.
“There is no way I can be surprised,” Matuludi told FARPost. “Obviously, when you are playing week in and week out, there will always be talks.
“That one we will see [regarding a move]. I can’t talk about that. I am here for now.”
While none of the “Big Three” have tabled a formal, confirmed bid to Rise and Shine just yet, the battle for his signature is set to dominate the remainder of the winter transfer window.
