Orlando Pirates Close In on Key Defensive Signing with Nkosikhona Ndaba Deal Imminent
Orlando Pirates appear to be making a decisive move in the transfer market as they edge closer to securing the services of Richards Bay left-back Nkosikhona Ndaba. The 22-year-old is reportedly on the brink of joining the Buccaneers on a long-term deal that underlines the club’s intent to strengthen its backline ahead of a demanding 2025/26 season.
According to sources close to Pirates’ recruitment team, the Soweto giants have offered Ndaba a five-year contract that would run from July 2025 through to June 2030. The proposed deal is viewed as a strategic investment into the club’s defensive future, especially after recent departures from key positions.
“He should be a Pirates player and they are offering him a five-year contract from July this year until June 2030,” a source told Soccer Laduma. “It’s a very good contract for a young defender like him. Remember he is only 22 years old and has been doing very well for Richards Bay. It will be a loss to them but a win for Pirates.”
Ndaba has emerged as one of the standout defenders in the DStv Premiership over the past two seasons, earning a reputation for his consistency, pace, and defensive intelligence. His performances have made him a prime target for top-flight clubs looking to refresh their defensive units with young, local talent.
A second insider revealed that Ndaba has long been identified as a replacement for veterans Innocent Maela and Paseka Mako — both of whom are believed to be on Kaizer Chiefs’ radar.
“They had been planning for Nkosikhona Ndaba for some time,” the source shared. “That’s why they were not worried when Maela retired and also releasing Mako. Ndaba is believed to be a direct replacement for them. He is still young and has a great future ahead of him and he will be learning a lot from the senior players.”
The addition of Ndaba would not only bring stability to the left side of the Bucs’ defence but also provide long-term continuity in a position that has been under the spotlight following changes in the squad.
The club has not yet issued an official statement regarding the transfer, but the strong indications are that an announcement could come soon, especially with preparations for both domestic and continental competitions already underway.
With this signing, Pirates would be showing clear ambition in their squad-building strategy — blending experienced leaders with emerging talent to keep the team competitive on multiple fronts.
If completed, the acquisition of Nkosikhona Ndaba would represent more than just filling a gap — it would signal a new chapter in the Buccaneers’ ongoing evolution.
