Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Siphelo Baloni set for Leicesterford City move

Former Orlando Pirates and Chippa United midfielder Siphelo Baloni is set to revive his career with Motsepe Foundation Championship side Leicesterford City after spending the 2025/26 season without a club.

The 26-year-old central midfielder is understood to be close to joining Leicesterford City, having struggled to secure regular first-team football in recent campaigns. The move would give Baloni an opportunity to return to competitive action after a difficult period away from the game.

Baloni spent 14 months sidelined by a long-term injury before becoming a free agent. He remained without a club for the whole of the 2025/26 campaign, leaving his playing future uncertain.

His next step is expected to come with Leicesterford City, who are preparing for the 2026/27 season and have been active in strengthening their squad. Baloni is set to arrive at a time when the second-tier club are reshaping their midfield following the departure of Matome Mmolai.

Leicesterford City have also added experience in attack, completing the permanent signing of former Orlando Pirates winger Sphamandla Mdunge as part of their recruitment drive.

Baloni’s most prominent move came in July 2023, when he signed a three-year contract with Orlando Pirates. He remained on the club’s books for 25 months before receiving official clearance to depart in August 2025.

Despite being contracted to the Buccaneers, Baloni spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Chippa United. He made 19 competitive appearances for the Gqeberha-based club and scored once during his time with the Chilli Boys.

That spell provided Baloni with regular exposure, but his progress was subsequently disrupted by the injury that kept him out for more than a year. His possible move to Leicesterford City now offers him the chance to rebuild his momentum and compete for minutes ahead of the new campaign.

The transfer would also add another player with top-flight experience to a Leicesterford City squad that has undergone significant change in preparation for the upcoming season. The club’s recruitment activity has intensified since Mmolai’s departure, with Baloni and Mdunge among the notable additions.

For Baloni, the move represents an opportunity to return to the pitch and re-establish himself after a frustrating period marked by limited playing time, injury and an entire season without a club.