With the PSL transfer window closing at midnight, Orlando Pirates have been busy.
The club’s recently released forward Zakhele Lepasa has joined Siwelele FC on a free transfer.
Tshepho Mashiloane has left Soweto to join Sekhukhune United on loan, while Orlando Pirates are scrambling to sign Andre de Jong from Stellenbosch FC before the midnight transfer window deadline.
DEADLINE DAY: ORLANDO PIRATES MAKING TRANSFER DECISIONS
The playing competition and squad depth at the Orlando Stadium is proving unforgiving again. With Thabiso Lebitso, Deano Van Rooyen and Bandile Shandu all battling for the right-back jersey, the 23-year-old Mashiloane barely stood a chance, with only two appearances from the club’s 10 games this term. The loan to Sekhukhune can only be ideal.
ZAKHELE LEPASA
Former Orlando Pirates striker Lepasa is set for a new chapter, with Siwelele FC expected to unveil the 28-year-old Sowetan tonight. “Zakes” leaves the Buccaneers with 15 goals and two assists in 64 appearances, plus three MTN8 titles and a Nedbank Cup to his name.
While he was linked with Durban City FC, the Citizens walked away from the chase and signed Letsie Koapeng from Orbit College FC instead.
ANDRE DE JONG
The bigger headline, though, is the chase for Stellenbosch FC star Andre de Jong.
According to iDiski Times, the Soweto giants are pushing hard to land the 28-year-old attacking midfielder before the window slams shut.
Earlier on Monday, Stellies’ CEO Rob Benadie confirmed talks are happening. However, the newest reports say the Cape side are leaning towards keeping the New Zealander until the January transfer window.
De Jong has been a consistent performer in the Cape Winelands, with 16 goals and 11 assists in 103 games. Known for his relentless work rate and creativity in the number 10 role, he would add real competition for Sipho Mbule, Patrick Maswanganyi and Kabelo Dlamini in the Orlando Pirates midfield.