DONE DEALS AND NEW MOVES: Nkota’s Saudi Switch, Zajmovic Eyeing Kaizer Chiefs, And Ntwari’s Tanzania Transfer
In a whirlwind of transfer news shaking up South African football, Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed the impending departure of their young star Mohau Nkota to Saudi Arabia’s Etifac Club.
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly closing in on striker Zenon Zajmovic, and goalkeeper Edward Ntwari is poised for a move to Tanzanian champions Yanga SC.
These developments highlight a dynamic transfer window with significant implications for the PSL and beyond.
Orlando Pirates have released an official statement confirming that 20-year-old attacker Mohau Nkota is set to join Etifac Club, a Saudi Pro League side currently managed by former Premier League star Steven Gerrard.
While the deal awaits Nkota’s successful medical and agreement on personal terms, it marks a major milestone for the young forward.
Nkota, who has shown promise as an attacking option for the Buccaneers, will now test himself in one of the world’s fastest-growing football leagues.
The Saudi Pro League has been aggressively building its profile by attracting international talents, and Etifac is no exception.
With a competitive squad and high-profile coach, the club offers Nkota a platform to develop alongside some of football’s biggest names.
This move could be a springboard for Nkota’s career, exposing him to new challenges and opportunities at an early stage.
The reaction to Nkota’s move is mixed among fans and pundits.
At just 20, some question whether the Saudi league is the right environment for his development, while others highlight the financial benefits and the chance to gain international experience.
Regardless, Nkota’s departure leaves Orlando Pirates with a gap to fill in their attacking lineup.
On the other side of the PSL, Kaizer Chiefs appear ready to bolster their squad with the potential signing of Zenon Zajmovic, a 30-year-old Bosnian striker currently a free agent.
Zajmovic impressed last season with TS Galaxy, scoring seven league goals and adding three more in the Nedbank Cup.
His experience in South Africa and proven goal-scoring ability make him an attractive option for Amakosi as they seek to strengthen their attack.
Zajmovic has expressed openness to staying in South Africa, noting the positive experience he and his family have had living and playing here.
With two PSL clubs already making contact, Chiefs’ interest could soon materialize into a deal.
Signing Zajmovic would add depth and firepower to their frontline, complementing recent acquisitions like Ethan Chislett and Flavio Silva.
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs face uncertainty in their goalkeeping department.
Edward Ntwari, the 24-year-old Rwandan shot-stopper who joined Chiefs a year ago, is reportedly being considered for a loan or permanent move to Yanga SC, Tanzania’s reigning champions.
Despite being part of Chiefs’ preseason camp in the Netherlands, Ntwari has struggled for game time and could benefit from regular minutes elsewhere.
Yanga SC’s persistent interest in Ntwari suggests they see him as a valuable addition to their squad.
For Chiefs, this move could free up space in the goalkeeping roster as they plan to bring in new talent.
Fans are divided over whether Ntwari deserves more time at Naturena or if a loan move is best for his development.
In related news, former Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Kevin Johnson revealed he never considered signing Congolese midfielder Pomu during his tenure, citing concerns over off-field behavior and the club’s existing midfield depth.
Johnson acknowledged Pomu’s talent but emphasized the importance of professionalism and focus, noting that Orlando Pirates have since given the player a second chance.
As the PSL season approaches, significant changes at Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates—including new coaches and fresh signings—set the stage for an intriguing campaign.
Meanwhile, defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns remain largely unchanged, potentially giving them an early advantage.
The success of new signings like Nkota, Zajmovic, and others will depend heavily on their preseason preparation and ability to integrate with their teams.
Fans eagerly await to see if these moves will translate into on-field success and shake up the balance of power in South African football.
With so much activity off the pitch, the transfer window promises excitement and drama.
Stay tuned for further updates as these stories develop and the new season unfolds.
The coming months could redefine careers and reshape the landscape of the PSL and African football at large.
