Orlando Pirates weigh Sifiso Luthuli decision as four clubs show interest

Orlando Pirates are considering the future of forward Sifiso Luthuli, with Siwelele FC, Marumo Gallants, Magesi FC and Orbit College among the clubs interested in signing him if he is made available.

The 25-year-old has not been included in any of Pirates’ matchday squads since the beginning of the 2026/27 season, increasing uncertainty over his position at the club.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is continuing to assess his squad as Pirates prepare to compete on multiple fronts this season. The French-Moroccan coach has been working with a large group of players and is expected to decide which members will form part of his core squad.

No final decision has yet been made on Luthuli, but enquiries from several clubs could help determine his next move. Pirates are also understood to be considering their plans for a number of other players as Ouaddou seeks to establish a manageable squad.

Luthuli’s situation has attracted particular attention since the arrival of Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen. Pirates had previously been expected to assess the forward during pre-season after he impressed during a loan spell at Magesi last season.

A further temporary move has been considered for Luthuli, especially after his encouraging performances for the Limpopo club during the second half of the previous campaign. He scored once and provided three assists in 11 Betway Premiership appearances for Magesi before also playing in the PSL promotion/relegation playoffs.

The forward has already spent time on loan at Pretoria Callies and Magesi. Having come through the development structures at Pirates, another loan spell could give him the regular first-team football that may be difficult to secure at the Buccaneers.

Interest from four clubs means Luthuli has options if Pirates decide he would benefit from leaving on a permanent or temporary basis. The final decision, however, is likely to depend on Ouaddou’s assessment of whether the player has a role in his plans for the season.

For now, Luthuli remains an Orlando Pirates player and his future has not been resolved. With clubs beginning to make enquiries, the position could become clearer once Pirates complete their squad assessment.

The Buccaneers’ decision will determine whether Luthuli stays to compete for a place under Ouaddou, returns to the loan market or moves to one of the clubs monitoring his situation. His previous spell at Magesi has helped generate interest, but Pirates must first establish whether he can contribute to their plans during the 2026/27 campaign.