Orlando Pirates‘ reported signing of Richards Bay FC forward Yanela Mbuthuma has raised eyebrows for Buccaneers goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs.
The 23-year-old frontman, who was also on Kaizer Chiefs' radar, is said to be joining Pirates to bolster their ranks for the next season.
The transfer speculation is intriguing, considering Mbuthuma signed a fresh five-year contract with the Natal Rich Boyz just a month ago.
This strongly implies that if the move to Pirates is confirmed, the club would have paid a hefty transfer fee. Mbuthuma certainly showcased his abilities last season, featuring in 27 games for Richards Bay, scoring six goals and contributing two assists.
His impressive form even led to a Bafana Bafana debut against Mozambique earlier this month, where he helped secure a 2-0 friendly win.
However, Josephs remains unconvinced by Pirates' decision. He reportedly argues that the club should be aiming for more established quality players from big clubs.
‘NO OFFENCE TO HIM’
“Why are we looking for players from clubs that are not above the top eight [small teams]? No offence to the player that we have signed,” stated Josephs in conversation with SoccerBeat.
“But our intentions and mentality are to go out there and compete. Look at how many goals he scored last season: he scored six goals in 27 games. However, no offence to him, but how many games did he start? So, that’s like one goal every six games, pardon me if my math is off.
“But my mind is telling me that we should be looking at the big boys [from big clubs]. We should look inside the top eight teams because outside of the top eight, there’s nothing.”
