The 2025 South African Premiership Transfer Window: Big Moves and Drama in the Transfer Market

Big Moves in the South African Premiership: Who’s in and Who’s Out?

The 2025 South African Premiership transfer window is already proving to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent years. With top clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Kaizer Chiefs making key signings, fans are bracing themselves for a dramatic second half of the season. Let’s dive into the biggest moves, the key rumours, and the underlying stories that could shape this transfer window.

Orlando Pirates Dominate the Off-Season Headlines

Orlando Pirates have been the talk of the transfer window, making bold moves to strengthen their squad for the 2025 season. The biggest splash? Signing Sipho Mbule from Mamelodi Sundowns. Known for his remarkable talent and controversial off-field history, Mbule’s transfer represents a high-risk, high-reward gamble for the Buccaneers. At 27, Mbule has all the tools to elevate Pirates, but it’s clear that his consistency and attitude will be under close scrutiny.

In addition to Mbule, Pirates have bolstered their squad with several new arrivals, including Yanela Mbuthuma and Nkosikhona Ndaba from Richards Bay, Tshepang Moremi from AmaZulu, and Sinoxolo Kwayiba from Chippa United. The club also made waves with the signings of Oswin Appollis and Kamogelo Sebelebele from Polokwane City and TS Galaxy, respectively. These additions, along with new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, are designed to take Pirates to the next level after consistently finishing behind Mamelodi Sundowns in the Premiership.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The club has seen some departures, with key players like Mohau Nkota joining Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq, while striker Zakhele Lepasa’s exit adds to the reshuffling. Fans are eager to see if these changes will finally propel Pirates to a title-winning position.

Mamelodi Sundowns: More Firepower and Defensive Depth

Mamelodi Sundowns, fresh from their FIFA Club World Cup campaign, have made fewer moves but still added some serious firepower. The signing of Fawaaz Basadien from Stellenbosch FC gives Sundowns what many consider to be the best left-back trio in the league, alongside Aubrey Modiba and Divine Lunga. With the versatility of Thapelo Morena also playing in the left-back position, Sundowns look poised to solidify their defense even further.

But not all is well in Chloorkop. Several key players, including Rivaldo Coetzee, Lucas Suárez, and Lebohang Maboe, have been released, and contract uncertainty surrounds star players like Khuliso Mudau and Peter Shalulile. The question remains: will Sundowns continue to dominate with their current squad, or are further moves on the horizon?

In a potentially game-changing rumour, Sundowns have been linked with several players, including a significant offer from Cape Town City for their highly-rated players. Meanwhile, reports of Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s potential move to Europe continue to swirl, especially after his standout performances in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Kaizer Chiefs Make Strategic Signings

Kaizer Chiefs, always under the microscope due to their large fanbase, are continuing their rebuilding process with several interesting signings. The acquisition of midfielder Ethan Chislett from Port Vale and the addition of Portuguese striker Flávio Silva aim to solve Chiefs’ long-standing goalscoring problems. The addition of left-back Nkanyiso Shinga from Alverca strengthens the defensive options, and Chiefs are also linked with the exciting striker Etiosa Ighodaro, although his future at Sundowns remains uncertain.

However, Chiefs have seen a few key players depart, with former captain Yusuf Maart making the move to Austria’s SV Ried and the release of several others, including Mduduzi Mdantsane and Edmilson Dove. With their squad in transition, Amakhosi fans will be watching closely to see if the new faces can deliver the desired results in the upcoming season.

The Bigger Picture: Transfers That Could Shake Up the League

While the “big three” dominate the headlines, other clubs have also made waves in the transfer market. SuperSport United’s Ime Okon has made a high-profile move to Hannover 96 in Germany, marking one of the biggest international transfers in the window so far. Okon’s departure is a significant blow to SuperSport’s defense, but it’s a testament to the growing talent pool in South African football.

One of the most interesting transfer stories involves 20-year-old winger Relebohile Mofokeng from Orlando Pirates, whose talent caught the eye of European clubs last season. With Barcelona reportedly interested, it’s clear that South African football is increasingly attracting global attention.

Looking Ahead: Will 2025 Bring the Drama?

The 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in the Betway Premiership’s history. With new talent coming in and several departures, it’s clear that the landscape of South African football is changing. Clubs like Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Kaizer Chiefs are betting big on new signings, but will they finally be able to dethrone each other?

Fans are in for a thrilling ride, and as the transfer window continues to unfold, the drama is only just beginning.

Source: ESPN Africa

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