Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are preparing for significant squad changes as both Soweto giants enter new phases in their respective journeys.
Kaizer Chiefs, under the leadership of new coach Nasreddine Nabi, are gearing up for their debut season in African competitions.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates are adjusting to life after Jose Riveiro, with a fresh approach expected in their transfer strategies.
Both clubs are now reported to be targeting Etiosa Ighodaro, the Nigerian striker previously on loan at AmaZulu from Mamelodi Sundowns.
Soweto Giants Eye the Same Transfer Targets
Historically, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates have often targeted the same players during transfer windows.
This pattern has continued into the current season, with both clubs being linked to multiple common targets.
Names like Oswin Appollis, Thabang Matuludi, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, and Fawaaz Basadien have been connected to both sides.
Masindi Nemtajela of Marumo Gallants has also been part of the shared interest.
This trend indicates a competitive transfer market where each club seeks to outbid the other for top talent.
Etiosa Ighodaro Draws Fresh Interest from Chiefs and Pirates
Etiosa Ighodaro has now emerged as the latest hot prospect on both clubs’ radar.
The 24-year-old striker impressed during his loan spell at AmaZulu and could now become available as a free agent.
Just last week, reports linked Kaizer Chiefs with renewed interest in Ighodaro’s signature.
Now, according to Soccer-Laduma, Orlando Pirates have officially joined the race as well.
Multiple Clubs Compete to Secure Ighodaro
Sources revealed that more than one local team is negotiating with Ighodaro’s representatives.
AmaZulu are reportedly eager to keep the forward and have already contacted both Mamelodi Sundowns and the player’s agents.
Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United are also said to be actively involved in discussions.
“The race is on,” said one insider, noting that it will all come down to which club presents the best offer.
This makes the competition for Ighodaro one of the most intriguing storylines in the current transfer window.
Ighodaro’s Potential Role at Kaizer Chiefs
For Kaizer Chiefs, signing Etiosa Ighodaro could add much-needed firepower to their attacking lineup.
With continental football ahead, squad depth and goal-scoring options are critical for a successful campaign.
Ighodaro’s pace, physicality, and goal sense could offer a strong complement to existing attackers like Ashley Du Preez.
His addition would also ease pressure on young forwards and bring balance to Amakhosi’s evolving tactics under Nabi.
How Ighodaro Could Fit Into Orlando Pirates’ Plans
Orlando Pirates are not lacking talent up front, but depth remains essential for a club competing on multiple fronts.
Ighodaro could be the ideal backup or even a challenger for starting roles depending on form and fitness.
His proven experience in the Premier Soccer League makes him a low-risk addition with immediate impact potential.
He also brings versatility, allowing the coaching staff to rotate players without compromising the team’s attacking threat.
Which Club Needs Ighodaro More?
The question remains—do Kaizer Chiefs or Orlando Pirates need Etiosa Ighodaro more?
For Chiefs, his signing could signal serious intent in Africa.
For Pirates, it might be about keeping talent away from their rivals while strengthening their own bench.
Either way, Ighodaro stands to benefit from competitive offers and the promise of regular first-team football.