Upington City close to signing former Orlando Pirates defender Justice Chabalala

Upington City are close to completing a deal for former Orlando Pirates defender Justice Chabalala, with the free agent already training with the Motsepe Foundation Championship club.

Sources within the club have told Soccer Laduma that an agreement is imminent for the 34-year-old, who has been without a team for several months.

Chabalala spent the second half of last season with Casric Stars, now known as Real Native. He is understood to be nearing a return to football with Upington City, although the final details of the move still need to be settled.

“He’s already here, but it’s a matter between him and the club. Hopefully he will sign this week,” a source said.

Chabalala was contacted for comment but appeared surprised by the report and declined to give his reaction. Upington City have also not commented on the proposed signing.

The club are currently seventh in the Motsepe Foundation Championship and have conceded 10 goals in nine matches. Chabalala’s composed style in defence could strengthen their squad as they pursue promotion to the top flight.

The defender joined Orlando Pirates in 2016 after moving from the now-defunct Free State Stars. He remained on the Buccaneers’ books until 2022, although he spent periods away from the club on loan.

Those loan spells included time with Chippa United, Bloemfontein Celtic and Sekhukhune United.

Chabalala has made 164 appearances in the top flight during his career.