PSL Transfer Window Heats Up as Orlando Pirates Seal Major Deals With Rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns
In a transfer window full of surprises, Orlando Pirates have made headlines after completing three high-profile deals with arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns—an unusual occurrence in South African football that has set the tone for an electrifying 2025/26 season.
The year 2025 is turning out to be one to remember for fans of the ‘Big Three’ in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), as rare direct transfers between Pirates, Chiefs, and Sundowns took place—breaking traditional rivalries and shaking up the league’s dynamics.
Pirates Land Sipho Mbule From Sundowns
Pirates’ marquee signing under new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is none other than former Sundowns midfielder Sipho Mbule.
Mbule’s move to Mayfair has already paid dividends, with the talented playmaker fast becoming a fan favourite among the Buccaneers faithful.
This headline-grabbing transfer set the stage for a flurry of activity from the Soweto giants.
14 New Signings for Pirates
Following the Mbule signing, Pirates completed 13 additional transfers, including:
- Yanela Mbuthuma (Richards Bay)
- Masindi Nemtajela (Marumo Gallants)
- Tshepang Moremi (AmaZulu)
- Nkosikhona Ndaba (Richards Bay)
- Abdoulaye Dine Mariko & Abdoulaye S Mariko (Djoliba AC)
- Sinoxolo Kwayiba (Chippa United)
- Tshepo Mashiloane (Baroka)
- Sihle Nduli (Stellenbosch)
- Oswin Appollis (Polokwane City)
- Kamogelo Sebelebele & Lebone Seema (TS Galaxy)
- Kabelo Kgositsile (Baroka FC)
This aggressive recruitment strategy signals Pirates’ intent to dominate the 2025/26 PSL campaign.
Chiefs Snap Up Two Pirates Players
In a surprising twist, Kaizer Chiefs secured the services of Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane—both former Pirates players—at the start of the season.
These direct transfers between the Soweto giants are rare and have caught many fans off guard. Still, both Mako and Monyane are now proudly wearing the gold and black of Amakhosi.
Pirates Lead the Pack in Transfers
With 14 new signings and 17 confirmed departures, Orlando Pirates have completed over 30 player movements this transfer window—more than any other team in the league.
In comparison, Kaizer Chiefs have been active as well, confirming 12 signings and 11 departures, bringing their total transactions to just over 20.
The scale and boldness of Pirates’ transfer activity highlight their ambition to reclaim dominance in South African football this season.
