Pirates secure teenage winger Chaney and loan him back to ambitious Hope FC

Orlando Pirates have completed the signing of highly rated teenager Edmilson Chaney from Hope FC, immediately sending the winger back to the newly promoted side on a season-long loan.

The 19-year-old, regarded as one of the most exciting young wide players in the country, has joined the Buccaneers in a permanent deal but will spend the 2026-27 campaign continuing his development with Hope FC, known as The Immortals.

As part of the arrangement between the clubs, Pirates’ DStv Diski Challenge centre-back Lonwabo Magugwana will also move to Hope FC on loan for the coming season.

Transfer drive for Championship debut

Hope FC have been notably active in the transfer market as they prepare for their first campaign in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, following promotion from the ABC Motsepe League.

The Western Cape side secured their step up to the second tier just a year after purchasing the status of Sea Point Swifts in 2025, and are now assembling a squad designed to compete immediately in the professional ranks.

They have already brought in experienced former Orlando Pirates midfielder Miguel Timm to add leadership and top-flight know-how to the squad.

Hope FC are also closing in on a deal for Lyle Lakay, while former Bafana Bafana attacker Keagan Dolly is currently undergoing an assessment with the club as they weigh up a potential move.

Blend of youth and experience

Alongside those headline names, The Immortals have sought to inject youthful energy into the team with the additions of Nande Wetbooi, Thamsanqa Magwaza, Selwyn Stevens, Tauric Gamaldien and Tyler Cicero.

Veteran defender Clayton Daniels and Zama Diyelela are set to take on leadership roles within the dressing room following the departure of former figurehead Dylan Dean.

The club’s recruitment drive reflects a clear strategy to mix seasoned professionals with emerging talent such as Chaney and Magugwana, as Hope FC look to establish themselves quickly in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

More arrivals expected

Sources indicate that the Western Cape ABC Motsepe League champions are not finished in the transfer market and remain in talks to add further reinforcements before the window closes.

With Orlando Pirates tying up a long-term move for Chaney while allowing both him and Magugwana to gain regular game time in the second tier, the deals underline a growing relationship between the Soweto giants and the ambitious newcomers from the Western Cape.