Goodman Mosele: Chippa United swoop in late to hijack Orlando Pirates midfielder’s move

Chippa United have dramatically beaten Durban City to the signing of Orlando Pirates midfielder Goodman Mosele, sealing a permanent deal just as he was poised to head to KwaZulu-Natal on loan.

The 26-year-old, who joined Pirates from Baroka FC in July 2021, has spent much of his spell with the Soweto giants out on loan at Chippa. Now the Eastern Cape club have moved decisively to make the relationship permanent, securing his signature for an undisclosed fee.

Mosele linked up with the Chilli Boys’ pre-season camp in Gauteng on Tuesday night, sources told iDiski Times, after the club stepped in at the eleventh hour to derail his expected switch to newly formed top-flight side Durban City.

The midfielder is now set to form part of coach Brandon Truter’s plans for the new Betway Premiership campaign, as Chippa look to pull clear of the relegation danger that dogged them last season.

Loan to Durban City blocked at final moment

Mosele had been on the brink of joining Durban City on a season-long loan from Pirates, with the move understood to be at an advanced stage.

However, Chippa officials moved quickly in the final stages of negotiations, convincing the former Baroka FC man to instead commit his future to the Gqeberha-based side.

The late twist underlines Chippa’s determination to strengthen a squad that only just avoided the relegation play-off positions last term, finishing narrowly above the drop zone.

Mosele’s familiarity with the club and its environment is believed to have been a key factor in the successful hijack, along with the promise of a more settled role after several loan spells.

Proven performer for Pirates and Chippa

Since arriving at Orlando Pirates three years ago, Mosele has made 53 appearances in the black and white, operating primarily as a central midfielder.

During his loan stints at Chippa United, he has played 55 matches in the Chilli Boys’ colours, making him a well-known figure to supporters in the Eastern Cape.

His blend of energy, ball-winning ability and experience in South Africa’s top flight is seen as crucial for a Chippa side aiming to stabilise and push towards mid-table this season.

Mosele is expected to feature in Chippa’s squad for an upcoming pre-season tournament in Mthatha, also in the Eastern Cape, giving Truter an early opportunity to reintegrate him into the team’s tactical setup.

Quiet window as Chippa target stability

Aside from the permanent capture of Mosele, Chippa United have had a relatively low-key transfer window to date.

The club’s most notable piece of business before this move was confirming the return of Nigerian international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who has rejoined the side after attracting attention with his performances domestically and for his country.

With limited squad upheaval so far, the club appear to be prioritising continuity and targeted reinforcements over wholesale changes.

Truter and his technical team will be hoping that the combination of a settled core and select additions such as Mosele will be enough to avoid another scrap for survival and instead push the Chilli Boys into a more comfortable position in the Betway Premiership table.