Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs are actively working to bolster their squads during the current transfer window, but their motivations differ due to contrasting performances in the league.
Pirates sit comfortably in second place in the Betway Premiership, having lost just once this season—a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stellenbosch FC. They have already secured silverware by defending their MTN8 title against the same team and have progressed to the CAF Champions League group stages. Chiefs, on the other hand, have had a challenging season. Despite high hopes under coach Nasreddine Nabi, they ended 2024 in a disappointing seventh position, struggling with both scoring goals and maintaining clean sheets.
One player of mutual interest to both clubs is Stellenbosch left-back Fawaaz Basadien. Basadien has been in exceptional form, contributing five goals and four assists while delivering consistent defensive performances. His ability to both score and keep clean sheets has drawn attention from Chiefs and Pirates alike. While Chiefs initially expressed interest in Basadien during the previous transfer window, Pirates have now entered the race, reportedly aiming to outmaneuver their rivals for his signature.
According to Soccer-Laduma, Pirates are devising a strategy to secure Basadien. They are willing to include club captain Innocent Maela and Paseka Mako in a deal to acquire the left-back. This move aligns with Pirates’ ambition to strengthen their squad for local and continental success.
A source revealed, “Pirates see Basadien as a key addition to reinforce their left-back position. Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns have failed to sign him so far, and Pirates are determined to seize the opportunity. They believe adding him will enhance their chances of dominating both domestically and in Africa.”
If Pirates succeed in signing Basadien along with other targets such as Oswin Appollis and Thabang Matuludi, it would deal a significant blow to Chiefs. Amakhosi coach Nabi has been vocal about the team’s urgent need for experienced and quality players. Losing all three Bafana Bafana internationals to their rivals, who already possess a stronger squad, could severely hinder Chiefs’ progress and ambitions.
This transfer battle not only highlights the clubs’ contrasting fortunes but also the fierce competition to secure top talent in South African football.