Orlando Pirates News Today: Bucs strengthen squad with duo, Transfer Updates & more

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Latest about Orlando Pirates, in the last 24 hours, including the signing of Deon Hotto’s replacement, Golden Arrows star set to join Bucs, and more.

Have Pirates signed Deon Hotto’s replacement?

Orlando Pirates have completed the signing of highly-rated left-back Neo Rapoo from Siwelele FC after reaching an agreement on a transfer fee and personal terms for the 20-year-old defender, FARPost can reveal. 

The talented full-back still had a year remaining on his contract with an option in favour of Siwelele. However, all parties have now agreed to the move, with Pirates securing one of the country’s promising young defenders.

Rapoo becomes the third player the recently-crowned Premier Soccer League champions have signed from Siwelele this transfer window, following the acquisition of Bohlale Ngwato and Gamphani Lungu. The Buccaneers have also strengthened elsewhere, bringing in Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay FC and Stellenbosch midfielder Mthetheleli Mthiyane.

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Photo: Orlando Pirates

Pirates had initially enquired about fellow Siwelele left-back Aphiwe Baliti. However, club decision-makers ultimately opted for Rapoo, who is younger and is viewed as a player with greater long-term development and resale potential.

The Buccaneers believe the former SuperSport United academy product has the attributes to become a key player for the club while also attracting future interest from overseas markets.

Pirates close to signing Arrows star

Fresh from securing highly rated left-back Neo Rapoo from Siwelele FC, Orlando Pirates have moved swiftly to conclude another major piece of business by winning the race for Golden Arrows attacker Siyanda Ndlovu.

FARPost has it on good authority that Ndlovu is set to become Pirates’ next signing as the club continues an aggressive recruitment drive ahead of the 2026/27 season. An agreement has been reached between Pirates and Arrows, while the player is also understood to be satisfied with the personal terms offered by the Soweto giants.

The recently crowned Betway Premiership champions have already secured Rapoo, Bohlale Ngwato and Gamphani Lungu from Siwelele FC, while former Richards Bay FC defender Sbangani Zulu and ex-Stellenbosch FC midfielder Mthetheleli Mthiyane have also joined the Buccaneers.

Siyanda Ndlovu, Golden Arrows
Siyanda Ndlovu, Golden Arrows. Photo: Golden Arrows

Ndlovu emerged as one of the most sought-after players in local football following a breakthrough campaign with Arrows. The versatile attacker attracted interest from several clubs, including Mamelodi Sundowns, who were believed to have tabled an offer for the player.

However, Pirates have won the race for his signature, adding another exciting attacker to a squad already brimming with talent. The Ndlovu move represents another significant statement of intent from the Buccaneers, who will represent the country in the CAF Champions League alongside the newly crowned African champions, Sundowns.

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Willis Sob

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Willis Sob is a sports betting expert and journalist covering Nigeria and South Africa, with 16 years of experience. With a background in journalism, reporting and programme production, he specialises in football odds, and his work has appeared on OK Africa and GOAL, as well as TV, radio and podcasts.