COSAFA Cup Star Laurindo Depu Aurelio Sparks Transfer Tug-of-War Between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates
As South African giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates gear up for a crucial transfer window, Angolan striker Laurindo Depu Aurelio has emerged as one of the most sought-after talents in Southern African football. Both clubs are now said to be in a heated race to sign the 2025 COSAFA Cup top scorer, setting the stage for a blockbuster Soweto tug-of-war.
Depu’s name shot to prominence after a spectacular campaign with the Angolan national team during the COSAFA Cup. The 25-year-old forward netted an impressive eight goals during the tournament, including a brace in Angola’s dominant 3-0 victory over South Africa in the final — a performance that turned heads across the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
According to sources with direct access to both clubs’ scouting teams, representatives from Chiefs and Pirates were in attendance during the tournament and have since shown keen interest in the prolific striker. “What I can tell you is that both teams had their scouts there. The scouts were all happy with what they saw in Depu and they enquired about him,” a regional football insider revealed.
Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly eyeing Depu as a potential alternative to Tanzanian midfielder Feisal Salum, whose high asking price has complicated negotiations. A source with knowledge of Chiefs’ scouting strategy explained, “Apparently Kaizer Chiefs don’t want to dwell much on Feisal Salum if the price is still that high and will now consider Depu. But the problem is Depu is now based in Portugal, which could present another challenge.”
Depu currently plays for Gil Vicente in Portugal and was loaned out last season to Serbian outfit FK Vojvodina, where he gained more European experience. Despite his overseas commitments, Chiefs may use their Angolan defender Inacio Miguel to help establish contact with the striker and facilitate talks.
Orlando Pirates are equally invested in the chase, with internal reports suggesting that they, too, are serious about bolstering their attack with the Angolan international. Their scouts reportedly gave positive feedback following his COSAFA performances and believe he could transition smoothly into the PSL.
While Depu’s contract situation in Portugal may complicate immediate negotiations, the striker’s recent form and international experience have elevated his stock considerably. Both Soweto giants recognize the value of securing a proven goalscorer who has already impressed on South African soil.
No official word has come from either club at this point, but sources suggest that preliminary interest has been registered, and negotiations could pick up pace once domestic transfer strategies become clearer.
As the new season approaches, the race for Laurindo Depu Aurelio’s signature will be one to watch, with both Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates determined to land the COSAFA Cup star and sharpen their attacking edge for 2025/26.
