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Pirates snap up Mlambo from Wits



Xolani Mlambo Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

Orlando Pirates have confirmed the signing of Bidvest Wits midfielder Xola Mlambo, and suggested there was more to come before the transfer window closes on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old makes the switch after battling for game-time with The Clever Bots this season, having been a part of the side that lifted the league trophy in the last campaign.

"Orlando Pirates Football Club is delighted to announce that it has reached an agreement with Bidvest Wits for the signing of midfielder Xolani Mlambo. The deal is subject to a medical," Pirates confirmed on their official website.

"The Mighty Buccaneers are expected to make further announcements as the club looks to bolster the squad as the Absa Premiership season enters its final stretch."

There have been reports that the club are also trying to bring Bafana Bafana youngster Phakamani Mahlambi back to the PSL on loan from Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

Mlambo was something of a late bloomer and made his professional debut for Cape Town All Stars in the National First Division in the 2015/16 season.

He was signed by top-flight Chippa United for the second half of that campaign, and within six months had signed for Wits.

He helped the club win the league and the 2016 MTN8, where he played the full 90 minutes in the final as they defeated Mamelodi Sundowns 3-0 in the final. He made just seven starts this season, though one of those was in the Telkom Knockout decider as Wits beat Bloemfontein Celtic 1-0. That would also be his last appearance for the team.