Orlando Pirates race Kaizer Chiefs to sign transfer target

Orlando Pirates are believed to have entered the race for a well reported Kaizer Chiefs transfer target for next season!

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Stanley Nwabali was impressive for Nigeria at Afcon, attracting interest from Pirates and European clubs in addition to Chiefs.

Nwabali, who currently plies his trade for Chippa United, was a surprise inclusion as first choice for Nigeria at Afcon. This was due to the fact that, he had only one cap for the Super Eagles prior to the showpiece. He would end up playing all seven games for Nigeria in Ivory Coast, keeping four clean sheets. He also played a huge role in the team finishing as runners up at the tournament. That also saw his name and reputation skyrocket, with more European clubs reportedly on his radar, making things difficult for Chiefs. 

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According to Soccer-Laduma, even in the unlikely event of Nwabali staying in South Africa, Pirates will compete with Chiefs. 

ORLANDO PIRATES JOIN KAIZER CHIEFS IN RACE FOR NWABALI?

“Big clubs are always looking for quality players and it is not surprising that there has been interest in the player from those clubs (Pirates). He came to the PSL to build his profile and the aim for him is to play for a big club. He is ambitious and he wants to play overseas,” said a source. 

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Pirates currently have a stacked goalkeeping department, but their fans have often viewed it as quantity over quality. They currently boast the likes of Sipho Chaine, Melusi Buthelezi, Richard Ofori and Siyabonga Mpontshane. Chaine emerged as their first choice after a Stella second half of the previous season. He then came into the current campaign still carrying the tag of number one. After getting injured, Buthelezi then took over. With there already being healthy competition in the Buccaneers camp, it remains to be seen if Nwabali would even consider the move. 

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The picture is a lot less clearer at Chiefs, however, with veteran keeper Itumeleng Khune reportedly set for an exit. That would then make a move for Nwabali logically. The confusing part is that the club have since offered two goalkeepers, contract extensions. Current number one Bruce Bvuma as well Brandon Petersen are both set to stay put for another two years. Is that a sign that Amakhosi have already thrown in the towel?