Pirates are still discussing the future of defender Happy Jele after serving the club for almost 15 years. According to sources, the club's hierarchy is allegedly divided about the player's stay with the Soweto giants this upcoming season.
With that said and according to insiders at the club, Maela has emerged as a candidate to take over as the club's captaincy after meeting the credentials to lead the Sea Robbers in the new season.
"The future of Happy Jele is still being discussed. There is also the potential of giving him a different role in the club this coming season," said the source.
"Maela is the right candidate to wear the captain's armband. He has leadership qualities and he was a captain at Thanda. He's also played football at an international level," he added.
Pirates are set to head to Rustenburg this week to intensify their preparations for the new season.
The club have signed a number of new players including Miguel Timm, Evidence Makgopa, Thapelo Xoki and Nkosinathi Sibisi.