A talented Nigerian defender is on the radar of Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates as the Soweto giants look set to undergo considerable changes to their squads at the end of the season.
A number of names in recent weeks have made it into the list of targets for the two rivals. They include Marumo Gallants’ duo Katlego Otladisa and Ranga Chivaviro and Amazulu left-back Riaan Hanamub.
TS Galaxy goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi has reportedly signed for the Buccaneers, while his captain Given Msimango has penned a deal with Amakhosi.
WHO IS PIRATES, CHIEFS TARGET?
Dondol Stars’ goalie Sphamandla Gumede and midfielder Thabang Mnyembane have also been linked to Bucs.
Pirates are in the market for a central defender as they prepare for life without Olisah Ndah, who is set to leave the club at the end of the season.
Ndah has been linked with two overseas teams after an impressive season for Pirates. Of course, his second season has been marred by injuries.
An SN24 source told this publication that his compatriot Denis Nya from Zambian MTN Super League side Zesco United has become the latest player to attract interest from the Soweto giants.
The defender is being closely monitored by the club, according to a source close to the club.
The Canaan United Academy development product has been impressive for the Ndola-based team and is one of the top performers in the Zambian Super League.
Bucs are believed to be considering luring the strongly built defender by offering him a contract to strengthen their defence.
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The 26-year-old central defender, who can also operate in midfield, is on the wanted list of Pirates’ arch-rival Kaizer Chiefs. They are keen to lure him to Naturena for next season following his impressive performances for Zesco.
AMAKHOSI SCOUTS
Amakhosi sent scouts to watch Zesco’s 1-1 draw against Power Dynamos in February and were impressed by his performance.
Chiefs and Pirates were last engaged in transfer battles for both Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo and Bienvenu Evanga. The duo ended up at the Buccaneers.
Nya is a former Nigerian youth international. He played alongside the likes of Leicester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho and Nottingham Forest attacker Taiwo Awoniyi.
The Calabar-born player represented Nigeria at the 2013 U-17 AFCON finals. He was part of the Golden Eagles finished second, and qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup finals.
He has previously played for Lobi Stars, Plateau United and Akwa United, among other clubs in his professional football career.