Orlando Pirates are reportedly edging closer to a major transfer coup, with negotiations for Polokwane City and Bafana Bafana right-back Thabang Matuludi now at an advanced stage, according to Kick Off journalist Ernst Fakude. The Buccaneers, preparing for a gruelling Betway Premiership and CAF campaign, have identified the right-back position as a key area for reinforcement. A source confirmed that Matuludi is expected to be a Pirates player next season, continuing a recent trend of business between the two clubs following the signing of Oswin Appollis last season.
At 1.89 metres, the Limpopo-born defender offers a unique profile for South African football, combining physical strength, aerial dominance, and an aggressive style in duels. Matuludi’s rise has been remarkable, emerging from lower-tier football to help Polokwane City earn promotion to the Betway Premiership before establishing himself as one of the league’s standout fullbacks. Even a serious knee injury failed to derail his progress, with the 25-year-old returning stronger and delivering consistent, energetic performances at both ends of the pitch.
Matuludi’s stellar club form earned him a call-up to Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad, where he has featured in crucial AFCON and World Cup qualifiers. His coach Phuti Mohafe has previously rated him as the second-best right-back in the country, behind only Mamelodi Sundowns’ Khuliso Mudau. With the transfer window approaching, Orlando Pirates appear poised to add another reliable option to their defensive ranks, bolstering their squad depth for the challenges ahead.