Orlando Pirates target Marumo Gallants midfielder Bheki Mabuza

Orlando Pirates are targeting Marumo Gallants midfielder Bheki Mabuza as they look to further strengthen their squad.

The potential move would be an unexpected one because Mabuza has not previously been linked with the Soweto club, including in recent reports about possible transfers.

A source at Marumo Gallants told Soccer Laduma that Pirates have been pursuing the player for several weeks.

“Pirates have been after him for the past few weeks,” confirmed our source at Marumo Gallants.

Mabuza, who is regarded as a versatile midfielder, made 27 league appearances for Marumo Gallants during the last campaign. He also played five times in cup competitions, taking his total number of appearances for the season to 32.

The midfielder has already featured in three league matches this season, underlining his continued involvement with Bahlabane Ba Ntwa.

The source praised Mabuza’s ability and explained why he has attracted interest from Pirates.

“That boy is a baller. That’s why he played so many games last season. He plays around the midfield, like he can play as an 8 or 10, and even as a 6.”

Mabuza is therefore capable of operating in several central midfield roles. He can be used as an advanced number eight or number 10, while also having the attributes to play as a deeper number six.

Soccer Laduma understands that the player could undergo a medical with Pirates this week. If that takes place, it could represent an important step towards completing the proposed transfer.

However, there has been no official confirmation that an agreement has been reached between the clubs or that the move will go ahead.

Soccer Laduma approached both Orlando Pirates and Marumo Gallants for comment on Mabuza’s potential transfer, but neither club responded.

The reported interest comes as Pirates continue to assess promising additions for their squad. Mabuza’s profile would offer the club another midfield option, with his experience of regular league football and his ability to cover multiple positions potentially making him an attractive signing.

For now, the midfielder remains a Marumo Gallants player and has already appeared three times in the league this season. The next indication of whether the move is progressing could come from the reported medical this week.