Orlando Pirates are considering late transfer-window moves for three Bafana Bafana internationals as they look to deepen their squad for a Betway Premiership title defence and a return to the CAF Champions League.
The Soweto club have already been active in the market but, after allowing highly rated youngster Relebohile Mofokeng to leave, there is scope – and motivation – to bring in at least one high-profile reinforcement before the window shuts.
All three potential recruits are current or recent South Africa internationals, with two free agents – Bongani Zungu and Percy Tau – available immediately, while Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole remains under contract in Portugal but has signalled openness to a move back home.
Zungu offers experience and control in midfield
Bongani Zungu, 33, is unattached following his departure from AmaZulu and would not require a transfer fee, making him an accessible option if Orlando Pirates decide to target central midfield.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns player has 30 Bafana Bafana caps and is seen as a good stylistic fit for Orlando Pirates’ current set-up under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. He is regarded as composed in possession, comfortable receiving the ball under pressure and adept at driving forward from midfield, with strong vision and accurate passing.
Zungu’s profile is similar to that of Sipho Mbule, who recently left the Buccaneers to join Zakho FC in Iraq, potentially making him a like-for-like replacement in terms of role. In addition to his offensive qualities, his defensive contribution has been proven at both club and international level, offering balance in the middle of the pitch.
Nicknamed “Ben 10”, Zungu would also add significant title-winning experience. During his spell with Mamelodi Sundowns between 2022 and 2024, he was part of the side that lifted back-to-back Betway Premiership titles in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons.
Tau headline name among available Bafana Bafana stars
Percy Tau remains one of the most high-profile free agents on the African market and is attracting interest due to his pedigree with Bafana Bafana, in European football and in the CAF Champions League.
The 32-year-old former national team captain is widely viewed as a player who could immediately raise the attacking ceiling of any side he joins. For Orlando Pirates, his potential arrival would offer more than flair in the final third; it would also bring substantial experience of competing and delivering at the highest level, both for club and country.
Despite his age, Tau is still recognised for his sharp movement, game intelligence and ability to unpick compact defences. Throughout his career he has been trusted to perform in high-pressure matches, something that would be invaluable for Orlando Pirates as they juggle domestic and continental commitments.
If the Buccaneers want a proven, marquee addition in attack, there are few available options with Tau’s track record. Surrounded by creative talents such as Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi and Tshepang Moremi, he could benefit from a regular supply of quality service and potentially rediscover his most decisive form.
Sithole profiles as long-term midfield solution
Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole offers a different type of midfield option. The 27-year-old, currently on the books of Portuguese side Tondela, has carved out a strong reputation in Europe and has previously made it clear that a return to South African football is something he would consider.
While Orlando Pirates already boast considerable depth in midfield, Sithole’s attributes could add a new dimension. He blends physical presence with composure on the ball, covers large areas of the pitch and is comfortable both disrupting opposition attacks and initiating his own team’s forward play.
Having developed in European football and established himself as a regular with Bafana Bafana, Sithole represents the kind of signing who may not attract the same headlines as a Tau or a Zungu, but could quietly reshape the balance and intensity of a midfield unit over the course of a season.
Buccaneers weighing final moves
Orlando Pirates are already regarded as having one of the strongest squads in the Betway Premiership, but the demands of defending their league crown while pushing for a deep run in the CAF Champions League could persuade the club to act before the window closes.
Even the addition of one from Zungu, Tau or Sithole would likely enhance their prospects on both fronts, offering either top-level experience, creative cutting edge or long-term midfield balance as Ouaddou prepares his group for a challenging campaign on multiple stages.
