Khuliso Mudau Could Be Next in Pirates–Sundowns Transfer Saga
Speculation around another blockbuster transfer between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns is gathering momentum, barely weeks after Monnapule Saleng completed his headline-grabbing move to Chloorkop.
According to reporter Karabo Phasha, Pirates are closing in on a deal for Sundowns right-back Khuliso Mudau, with talks believed to be at an advanced stage.
Mudau, 30, was thought to be close to renewing his contract earlier this Betway Premiership season. However, negotiations reportedly stalled amid internal tensions, which saw the former Black Leopards defender miss training sessions and several matches. Although he later returned to action, no agreement was reached, leaving Sundowns vulnerable to losing him for free when his contract expires in June.
Phasha claims the Buccaneers are now poised to capitalise.
“Orlando Pirates are closing in on a potential move for Khuliso Mudau. We understand he is on his way to the Buccaneers in this window,” he reported.
Since joining Sundowns, Mudau has been a cornerstone of their dominance, amassing 169 appearances, seven goals and six assists. A regular for South Africa national football team with 31 caps, the right-back has won five consecutive league titles, the Nedbank Cup, MTN8 and the African Football League, while featuring deep in the CAF Champions League on multiple occasions.
Should the move materialise, Pirates’ right-back competition would intensify, with Deano van Rooyen, Thabiso Lebitso and Bandile Shandu already in the mix. Sundowns, meanwhile, could lean on Thapelo Morena, Zuko Mdutyelwa and Kegan Johannes.
Fans are split. Some view the switch as a statement signing that strengthens Pirates against their biggest rivals, while others argue a move away from Chloorkop could hurt Mudau’s 2026 World Cup ambitions. For now, it remains a rumour — but one that could reshape the PSL’s balance of power.