Orlando Pirates are reportedly close to signing a Bafana Bafana midfielder as they bid to complete their transfer business early.
The player in question is Chippa United star Sinoxolo Kwayiba who has been a key player for the Chilli Boys this season with seven goals and one assist.
As per iDiski Times, Pirates are closing in on Kwayiba after reaching an agreement with Chippa United although personal terms are yet to be agreed between the player and the Buccaneers.
Kwayiba has played 22 games across all competitions with his impressive numbers attracting Pirates, who are looking for midfield reinforcements, to have a strong squad for whoever replaces outgoing coach Jose Riveiro.
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The Soweto giants feel the 25-year-old can be a great addition to the squad as they look to challenge on all fronts next season after an impressive 2024-25 campaign so far.
What is further attracting Pirates to the player is his versatility as he can play either in central midfield or off the main striker, skills that few at Pirates currently possess.
Kwayiba’s arrival would increase competition for a starting place in attacking midfield with Patrick Maswanganyi who has been preferred in the role by Riveiro since he joined the club.
Kwayiba keen on Bafana Bafana call-ups
The player will also be looking to play consistently at Orlando Stadium to nail down a place in the Bafana Bafana squad ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, which kicks off in December, and possibly the 2026 World Cup as South Africa enjoy a five-point lead in their qualifying group.
He was first called up for international duty during the AFCON 2025 qualifiers in October 2024, getting nine minutes in Bafana Bafana’s 5-0 thrashing of Congo in Gqeberha, and was an unused substitute in the return leg in Brazzaville four days later.
He has not received Bafana Bafana call-ups since and will hope that a move to Pirates will thrust him in the spotlight and make the decision easy for coach Hugo Broos.
