A Soweto giant has confirmed the signing of midfielder Sipho Mbule, who is a free agent after leaving Mamelodi Sundowns and had been strongly linked with a move to his new team's rivals.
Mbule had long been linked with a move to Chiefs, with his agent, Mike Makaab, confirming via social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that he had been offered to the club.
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However, in a shock twist, the 27-year-old was unveiled by Pirates on Tuesday afternoon as the club's official first signing ahead of the new season.
Mbule made 12 appearances while on loan at Sekhukhune United last term. His parent club, Mamelodi Sundowns, had loaned the troubled star to Babina Noko to help him secure more game-time.
His contract with the Tshwane giants, set to expire at the end of June, was not renewed, freeing Mbule up to join his next club on a free transfer.
'Master Chef', as he is lovingly called, will face stiff competition for a starting place, with Thalente Mbatha, Makhehlene Makhaula, and Goodman Mosele just a few of those he will have to best on the training pitch to earn a spot.
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Meanwhile, Pirates, who unveiled new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou on Monday, are set to fly off to Spain for their pre-season camp.
