Orlando Pirates are reportedly intensifying their pursuit of Richards Bay forward Yanela Mbuthuma, with the aim of strengthening their attacking options ahead of the second half of the season. However, despite their interest, securing Mbuthuma’s services before the summer window closes is expected to be a difficult task.
Reports suggest that Richards Bay, who are currently fighting to avoid relegation in the South African top-flight league, have no intention of letting go of their key player during the January transfer window. With the team in a precarious position just above the relegation zone, they are unlikely to entertain any offers for the forward at this stage. Mbuthuma is seen as an important part of their survival strategy, and Richards Bay will be keen to keep him in their ranks as they battle for crucial points in the second half of the season.
As reported by Soccer Laduma, “It will be difficult to get the player now in January, as Richards Bay have their own plans for him. He is a key part of the club’s plans as they fight against relegation. The club is unlikely to entertain any offers for the boy at this stage.” Mbuthuma, who has been one of the standout performers for Richards Bay, has contributed significantly to their attacking play, and letting him go now would leave a huge gap in their squad at a critical time.
With the club’s current position in the league precarious, sitting just a point above the relegation zone, Richards Bay’s management and coaching staff will be looking to build on their momentum in the upcoming games. Their next match against Magesi FC will be particularly crucial, as a win could provide the cushion they need to distance themselves from the relegation scrap.
In light of this, it seems increasingly unlikely that Mbuthuma will make a mid-season move, with Richards Bay focused solely on survival. While Pirates continue to express their interest, it may be a situation where the transfer chase extends beyond January, possibly in the off-season when Richards Bay’s situation is more secure.
Meanwhile, there are also reports of potential movement at Orlando Pirates, with DR Congo international Karim Kimvuidi reportedly seeking a move away from the club. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has struggled to break into the first-team squad, despite his undeniable talent. Kimvuidi’s game time has been limited at Pirates, with the team boasting an array of star players in his position, making it difficult for him to cement a starting role.
Several African clubs are said to be monitoring Kimvuidi’s situation, and while Pirates are reportedly open to loaning him out, the player himself is understood to be eager to move outside of the PSL in search of more consistent playing time. Pirates are willing to loan the player, but it seems Kimvuidi is keen on exploring options beyond South Africa.
A source close to the situation confirmed to Soccer Laduma, “Kimvuidi is one of those players who might be considered unfortunate, because despite being so talented, he finds himself in an environment where he’s competing with established stars for a spot in the team. It has been difficult for him to break into the starting lineup.” The source went on to add that while Kimvuidi is undoubtedly a skilled player, the fierce competition for places at Pirates has stifled his opportunities to feature regularly. This has led to the midfielder considering a move elsewhere, where he can find the consistent game time that he feels he needs to develop further.
Pirates have a solid squad, with competition in nearly every position, and it’s clear that some players, like Kimvuidi, are finding it challenging to get the minutes they desire. The club’s depth means that breaking into the first team isn’t easy, and for young players like Kimvuidi, the opportunity to move and develop their careers could be an appealing one.
In the midst of this, it remains to be seen whether Kimvuidi will indeed secure a loan move before the end of the transfer window. With several African clubs reportedly showing interest, it’s likely that his future will be decided in the coming weeks, as Pirates look to balance squad depth with the development of their younger players.
For Mbuthuma, the situation with Richards Bay suggests that Pirates may have to wait longer than expected to land their target. If Richards Bay continue their relegation battle and Mbuthuma continues to shine, it will be hard to see the Limpopo club parting ways with their key player mid-season.
In conclusion, while Orlando Pirates are certainly making moves in the transfer market, it’s clear that they will face stiff competition in securing key players like Mbuthuma. For Kimvuidi, his future at Pirates may hinge on finding more opportunities elsewhere, with a loan move potentially on the cards. It’s a fluid situation at both clubs, and it will be interesting to see how things unfold as the transfer window nears its end.
