Orlando Pirates Transfers: Buccaneers hand new deals to veteran duo

Orlando Pirates have reportedly decided to offer new contracts two of their most experienced players Makhehleni Makhaula and Deon Hotto.

Veteran midfielder Makhaula is set to remain with Pirates after reportedly agreeing to a one-year contract extension, securing his place at the club until the end of the 2026/27 Premier Soccer League season.

Sources close to the club indicate that both parties have successfully concluded negotiations, fulfilling Makhaula’s desire to continue his career with the Soweto giants. The agreement comes as his previous contract was nearing its expiration.

Makhehlene Makhaula of Orlando Pirates against Richards Bay. Photo: Orlando Pirates

According to Soccer Laduma, the experienced midfielder has officially committed his future to the Buccaneers for another campaign.

Makhaula’s Pirates stay extended

“Makhehleni Makhaula has finalised a one-year extension with Pirates ahead of the new season. His contract now runs until June 2027, and he remains a key part of coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s plans,” the source told Soccer Laduma.

“The technical team highly values his leadership, experience, and professionalism. They see him as crucial for the team’s ambitions to defend their domestic titles and make a strong run in the CAF Champions League.”

Evidence Makgopa and Makhehlene Makhaula of Orlando Pirates celebrate. — Evidence Makgopa and Makhehlene Makhaula of Orlando Pirates celebrate a goal against Stellenbosch FC. Image: Orlando Pirates

Since joining from AmaZulu FC, the 36-year-old has become a reliable presence in the heart of the Pirates’ midfield. His relentless work rate, ball-winning skills, and on-field leadership have made him an indispensable player.

Hotto commits future to Buccaneers

Makhaula is currently with the squad in Marbella, Spain, for a pre-season training camp under the guidance of new coach Ouaddou where they played the first of their five friendly matches against Spanish side Cordoba on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Hotto has also signed a contract extension at the club with the 35-year-old, who joined Pirates in 2020 set to take his stay at the club to seven years, as per SoccerBeat.

Hotto is one of Pirates’ most consistent performers and has remained evergreen despite being in his mid-30s.

The Namibia, who joined Pirates from the defunct Bidvest Wits, has made 251 appearances for the Soweto giants, scoring 28 goals and providing 47 assists.