The ongoing transfer drama between South Africa’s football giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates has taken a new twist, centering around the highly sought-after midfielder Saleng.

As both clubs gear up for the 2025/26 season, tensions have risen with each side maneuvering to strengthen their squads.

This article delves into the latest developments, the background of the Saleng saga, and what it means for both clubs moving forward.

 

Saleng, a talented midfielder currently with Orlando Pirates, has become the focal point of intense transfer speculation.

Kaizer Chiefs reportedly made an offer of 3. 5 million rand for Saleng back in January, which Orlando Pirates rejected outright.

Since then, the situation has simmered, with Chiefs adopting a “waiting game” approach as Saleng’s contract nears its end, with only one year left.

 

Sources close to the matter reveal that Saleng is a disgruntled member of the Pirates squad, which has fueled rumors about his potential move to Chiefs.

Despite the lack of a formal written offer, Chiefs have maintained verbal talks with Pirates and Saleng’s representatives, hoping to secure the player once he becomes available.

The transfer drama is further complicated by the fact that Chiefs reportedly did not follow the standard protocol of officially notifying Pirates before initiating talks with Saleng, leading to some friction between the two clubs.

Pirates’ management sees this as a slight, and some believe that the current tensions are partly a response to Chiefs’ earlier moves.

 

Adding fuel to the fire, Orlando Pirates recently signed Osunis, a player linked with Chiefs in previous rumors.

The signing is widely viewed as a strategic move by Pirates to “spite” Chiefs, sending a message that they are determined to keep top talent away from their rivals.

 

Osunis, described as a top talent, has attracted interest from several clubs, including Chiefs.

Pirates’ officials have been tight-lipped about the deal but emphasize that they are working hard to bring the best players to their squad to achieve their goals.

 

This signing reflects Pirates’ intent to build a strong team capable of challenging Chiefs and other PSL teams for titles.

The move also highlights the fierce rivalry between the two clubs, where every transfer deal is not just about strengthening squads but also about gaining psychological advantage.

Kaizer Chiefs have been active in the transfer market, securing several foreign players including Portuguese striker Flavio Silva, midfielder Ethan Chislett, and versatile defender Mkiso Sherna.

These signings demonstrate Chiefs’ commitment to reinforcing key areas of their squad ahead of a demanding season involving both the PSL and CAF Confederation Cup.

 

However, the club faces challenges with foreign player slots, as many are already filled with Castillo, Silva, Miguel, and Leo.

This limits the club’s flexibility to add more foreign talent, making the potential signing of Saleng — a domestic player — even more significant.

 

Chiefs’ management appears to be playing a patient game with Saleng, hoping to sign him on a free transfer or at a reduced fee once his contract expires.

This approach reflects a pragmatic strategy to balance squad needs with financial realities.

 

The transfer window has also seen other notable movements and rumors.

Police Caris, a creative midfielder whose contract with Mamelodi Sundowns recently expired, is attracting attention from both Chiefs and Pirates.

Both clubs are said to be monitoring his situation closely, setting the stage for a potential transfer battle.

 

Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs’ Malula’s agent revealed that the player has received offers from Egypt and Europe, including a €2. 5 million bid from an unnamed Qatari club.

This highlights Chiefs’ position as a club that develops talent capable of attracting international interest.

 

In coaching and management news, former Chiefs striker Roger Disa Na has joined Cape Town Spurs as their new technical director, while John Maduga has been appointed as a coach, signaling continued movement in the South African football coaching landscape.

 

Off the pitch, there are significant developments involving SuperSport United.

A consortium headed by Gayton McKenzie is reportedly close to finalizing the purchase of the club.

Celtic FC has made an offer, but there are unresolved issues related to naming rights.

This sale could have broader implications for the PSL, potentially affecting player transfers and club strategies as new ownership takes over.

Chiefs and Pirates, as major PSL players, will be watching these developments closely.

 

Amid the transfer buzz, Kaizer Chiefs have secured some stability by renewing contracts of key players.

George Mlo has signed a short-term one-year deal, ensuring his presence for the upcoming season.

Similarly, Yasu Mart has been handed a two-year contract extension and will continue to captain the side.

 

These contract renewals provide a degree of continuity as Chiefs integrate new signings and prepare for a competitive season.

 

The transfer saga between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates underscores the intense rivalry that defines South African football.

Both clubs are not only competing on the pitch but also in the transfer market, each move scrutinized by fans and the media alike.

Pirates’ signing of Osunis and their rejection of Chiefs’ Saleng bid can be seen as tactical moves to assert dominance and deny Chiefs key players.

Conversely, Chiefs’ patient approach to Saleng and their focus on foreign signings show a club determined to build a squad capable of challenging Pirates and other PSL contenders.

 

This rivalry drives both clubs to improve continuously, which benefits South African football by raising standards and increasing excitement for supporters.

 

As the 2025/26 PSL season approaches, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are engaged in a high-stakes battle not only on the field but also in the transfer market.

The Saleng saga epitomizes the complex interplay of negotiations, rivalries, and strategic planning that characterize South African football.

 

Chiefs’ waiting game on Saleng, Pirates’ acquisition of Osunis, and the influx of new signings across both clubs suggest that fans can expect a fiercely competitive season ahead.

With contract renewals and new ownership changes at other clubs like SuperSport United, the entire league is poised for dynamic shifts.

 

Supporters of both clubs will be watching closely as these transfer stories unfold, hoping their teams come out on top in what promises to be an exciting chapter in PSL history.

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