There’s a quiet transfer battle unfolding behind the scenes — and Orlando Pirates might just be winning it. The Buccaneers are edging closer to snapping up Stellenbosch FC’s star left-back Fawaaz Basadien, while Kaizer Chiefs look set to miss out yet again.
Pirates are pushing hard to land the 28-year-old defender, who has had a standout season for Stellies. Even with Stellenbosch making it clear they want to keep him, the Sea Robbers are staying on the offensive, confident they can get their man.
Chiefs were the first to make a move, launching a serious attempt before the current campaign kicked off — but talks broke down, and nothing came of it. That gave Pirates the opening they needed, and now they’re reportedly leading the race.
“Chiefs tried, no doubt,” a source close to Basadien revealed. “But there was no deal, and Pirates are moving in fast. Don’t be shocked if he ends up in Soweto — just not in gold and black.”
Why are Pirates going after Basadien so aggressively? It makes perfect sense. Their current left-sided options — Deon Hotto, Innocent Maela, and Paseka Mako — are all over 30, and Hotto has been used further up the pitch. With age catching up to their defensive core, Basadien brings much-needed youth, pace, and flexibility.
“He fits the mold for the left-wing-back role, especially now that Hotto’s playing more advanced,” said an insider. “Depending on the coach’s system, he could slot in perfectly.”
What adds extra spice? If this move goes through, Basadien would link up once again with Deano van Rooyen, another Stellenbosch talent who made the switch to Pirates not long ago. The Buccaneers seem to be making a habit of tapping into Stellies’ talent pool — and it’s paying off.
Basadien’s stock is rising fast. He’s been rock-solid this season, playing a key part in Stellenbosch’s impressive CAF Confederation Cup run — including that huge upset against Zamalek. Now a Bafana Bafana international, he’s attracting serious attention, but he’s kept things professional despite back-to-back transfer windows without a move.
“He wants to test himself at a bigger club,” the source added. “But credit to him — he’s stayed focused even with all the noise.”
Will Pirates get their man this time? Or will Chiefs or another club swoop in at the last minute? With transfer season heating up, anything can still happen.
