Orlando Pirates are reportedly searching for a quality right-back, with Polokwane City defender Thabang Matuludi linked with a move to the Buccaneers.
The 25-year-old has yet to feature for Polokwane City this season, raising questions about his future at the club amid reports of interest from Pirates.
However, City coach Willy Maloto has explained Matuludi’s absence, insisting that the defender remains part of his plans.
Maloto has opted to stick with 21-year-old Surprise Manthosi at right-back after the youngster impressed at the start of the campaign.
Orlando Pirates eyeing Matuludi
“Why change something if it’s not broken? Thabang will come back, he’s still part of us,” Maloto said.
“He’s staying with us. A lot of media are talking badly about Thabang and saying he is not at training. Thabang is always at training. He comes to attend our games. So when he gets an opportunity, then he’ll come back and play.”
Matuludi was part of the Bafana Bafana squad at the recent FIFA World Cup, and Maloto suggested that the player is still recovering from his involvement with the national team.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates could face another major headache before the transfer window closes, with star winger Oswin Appollis attracting interest from overseas clubs.
On Monday, The Citizen reported that the 24-year-old had attracted interest from clubs abroad, with an offer reportedly already tabled for his services.
It remains to be seen whether Pirates can hold on to Appollis, particularly after already losing key players during the transfer window.
The Buccaneers sold Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi, leaving the club with further pressure to maintain squad depth as they compete on multiple fronts.
With the MTN8 final now just a month, Orlando Pirates will look to have their best team available.
