Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns right-back Khuliso Mudau has been linked with a potential move to rivals Orlando Pirates.
This is according to freelance journalist Karabo Phasha.
The two clubs have already conducted business together during the January transfer window, with Pirates selling Monnapule Saleng to the Brazilians. The signing was announced by Sundowns on Friday.
Mudau played in all four of South Africa’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations fixtures, and has returned from Morocco following the team’s round of 16 exit at the hands of Cameroon.
Having lost a superb defensive talent in Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who has joined Chicago Fire in the MLS, the Buccaneers will be keen to add another Bafana Bafana defender to its ranks.
However, the club is already spoilt for options at the right-back position.
Thabiso Lebitso has been coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s first choice of late. He has played in seven of the Bucs’ 12 league games this season, while Bandile Shandu has only managed two appearances. Deano van Rooyen, who has two caps for Bafana Bafana and joined the Bucs last season, has had to sit on the sideline for much of the season due to injury, also managing only two league appearances this season. He could reprise the starting role as he was on the bench for Pirates’ Carling Knockout final triumph before the international break and played for three minutes at the end of the game prior.
Mudau is an already established talent and would certainly strengthen the Buccaneers as their starting option, as they clearly try to continue their winning ways. However, his longevity could come into question as he turns 31-years-old in April.
Pirates are in top spot on the Betway Premiership log, two-points ahead of reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns with a game in hand and could claim the title for the first time since the 2011/12 season.
Given their current position, selling Mudau to Pirates could come back to haunt Sundowns, should the deal happen.
