Orlando Pirates have looked sharp throughout their pre-season tour in Spain, giving supporters plenty of reasons to be optimistic ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
New head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has overseen an encouraging pre-season, while the club has invested heavily in youth during the current transfer window.
Although the young recruits offer plenty of promise, many believe the Buccaneers still need two or three experienced additions to strengthen their bid for domestic and continental success.
Orlando Pirates supporters are eager to see the club establish complete dominance in the Betway Premiership while also mounting a serious challenge in the CAF Champions League.
Two players who have been heavily linked with the Soweto giants are Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi and Namibia international Peter Shalulile.
Matuludi would address an important area of concern. The 27-year-old combines pace, physicality and aerial ability, qualities Pirates could benefit from at right-back. His defensive attributes, coupled with his attacking runs down the flank, make him an ideal fit for a side looking to compete on multiple fronts.
According to KickOff, the talented defender could be on his way out of Polokwane City.
Orlando Pirates eyeing Matuludi and Shalulile
Shalulile, meanwhile, is available as a free agent following his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns.
Despite his age, the Namibian striker remains one of the most clinical finishers in South African football. His experience, movement and proven goalscoring record could provide Pirates with the cutting edge needed in tight matches.
Beyond their individual qualities, both players would bring valuable leadership and big-match experience to a relatively youthful squad.
If Orlando Pirates are serious about ending their league title drought and making a genuine push for CAF Champions League glory, signing experienced campaigners like Matuludi and Shalulile could prove to be the difference.
Adding a creative midfielder capable of unlocking stubborn defences would further strengthen a squad that already looks capable of competing for major honours.
