This was confirmed to KickOff.com by the players’ manager, Mathini Motlaung, on Tuesday night. Motlaung said both players have signed three-year deals.

“It has been a very busy schedule and I have just landed back in Bloemfontein after flying to Johannesburg to conclude the deals for both Kanono and Mothibantwa,” Motlaung says.

“Both have signed three-year contracts with Pirates and are expected to start training with the team on Wednesday.”

Pirates have been busy in the transfer market in the off-season, having already signed goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs (from BidVest Wits), defender Benson Mhlongo (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thulasizwe Mbuyane (Free State Stars) and Reason Chiloane (Garankuwa United).