Kaizer Chiefs will have to fend off Orlando Pirates for the signature of Thabang Matuludi.
The 25-year-old Polokwane FC right-back has both Soweto Giants interested – the defender could move this summer.
The Glamour Boys tried to sign Matuludi during the offseason but failed to get the deal over the line.
“Chiefs were leading the race to sign him, and unfortunately for him, the move didn’t happen before the last transfer window closed,” an insider told Citizen.
“There have been enquiries about him and I’m told Orlando Pirates are also monitoring the situation. Remember Kaizer Chiefs wanted to also get his teammate Oswin Appollis but that move also didn’t happen because the City chairman is a hard man to convince into selling.”
Where’s the best destination?
It’s hard to argue that the Orlando Pirates aren’t Matuludi’s best destination, whilst the Kaizer Chiefs try to ignite their season after two losses and a draw in their opening five PSL games.
Last season, AmaKhosi finished a club-worse tenth place.
Jose Riveiro’s side is the team to beat, leading Mamelodi Sundowns by three points and winning all seven of their opening league games, a streak that can continue when they play Stellenbosch FC on December 1.
It would have been nearly two months since their MTN8 victory over the Cape Winelands outfit when they face each other again – Steve Barker and his players will be adamant about ending Pirates’ potentially record-breaking run.
The Riveiro situation
A factor that could sway Matuludi towards Kaizer Chiefs is the uncertainty surrounding Jose Riveiro’s future.
Many believe that the manager will leave at the end of the season after he refuses to extend his contract, which runs out in 2025.
“There is an offer for the coach to continue for another three years, but he has asked to wait until the end of the season. His main wish is to win the league, and if that happens, he may leave because he misses home,” an anonymous source explained.
“The league title may decide the coach’s future. That’s what’s believed as things stand.”
The source suggests that Riveiro is hoping to bow out in style, ending Orlando Pirates 13-year PSL drought, making it six major trophies during his tenure.
“Nothing has been agreed upon because the coach hasn’t made up his mind. He has made it clear that he misses home and family. And will only consider his future at the end of the season. However, the club has already opened talks with his representatives, hoping for the best outcome,”
There’s a risk that comes with hiring a new manager, a fear of the unknown – a lot can happen for the relationship not to work, will the Polokwane defender want to put himself in that ominous period.
Do you think Kaizer Chiefs will sign him?
Let us know your thoughts by clicking on the comment tab below this article. Or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook.
