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Saturday, July 26, 2025

Transfer Talk | Orlando Pirates lead the charge as transfer window sparks ambition

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The 2025/26 transfer window has brought with it plenty of intriguing moves, with some clubs showing real intent to bounce back with renewed determination. Others, however, have opted for continuity, making minimal changes.

Mamelodi Sundowns will once again be the team to beat heading into the new campaign. With a noticeable gap still existing between them and the chasing pack, the question remains whether they can maintain their high standards.

Having dominated the league for the past eight seasons, they’ve built a reputation for consistency — a trait that will once again be central to their ambitions.

That said, the new season presents fresh challenges, and several clubs have been noticeably more active than others in the market.

All eyes will be on how these clubs fare, and here we take a look at the three most active sides in the current window and how they’re positioned compared to last season.

Orlando Pirates

Top signing so far: Sipho Mbule

Not only have the Buccaneers been the most active, but they’ve also arguably been the most effective in the transfer market.

Their aggressive approach signals a clear intention to pick up where they left off last season and continue their pursuit of toppling Sundowns. Despite a solid campaign — perhaps their best in recent years — Pirates still fell short of matching the Brazilians’ pace towards the end of the season.

However, with the right chemistry, this might be the season they mount a serious challenge.

Sipho Mbule stands out as a major acquisition. His creativity in central midfield addresses a gap Pirates often struggled with, particularly against teams that sat back and defended deep.

This struggle was evident in their four draws and five losses, compared to Sundowns’ superior record of just one draw and two fewer defeats.

Kaizer Chiefs

Top signing so far: Thabiso Monyane

Still on the lookout for further reinforcements before the window closes, Amakhosi have been among the busier teams this off-season.

Fresh off their recent encounters with top Dutch opposition, the team enters the new campaign with a fresh mindset and renewed energy, bolstered by several important signings.

One of the key issues last season was the lack of defensive consistency, not helped by poorly timed injuries.

Thabiso Monyane has already impressed in the limited game time he’s had. Widely regarded as one of the country’s brightest prospects, Monyane could be instrumental in stabilising the right-back position — provided he remains injury-free.

Sekhukhune United

Top signing so far: Miguel Timm

Babina Noko have been a strong, consistent force among the league’s top sides, and last season was no different. However, they narrowly missed out on a return to continental competition, finishing just two points behind third-placed Stellenbosch FC.

Their recent transfer activity makes it clear they are targeting a top-three finish this time around.

Bringing in Miguel Timm from Pirates could prove to be a shrewd move. The experienced midfielder brings composure, leadership, and experience from his time competing at the highest level.

His presence in the middle of the park could be a key asset as coach Eric Tinkler aims to guide the team into the top tier of the standings.

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