Orlando Pirates transfer drama: Will Appollis move without fullback?

Orlando Pirates transfer drama continues, as a new challenge is presented.

Pirates’ ambitious move to sign Oswin Appollis and Thabang Matuludi has hit an unexpected snag. The proposed deal now faces uncertainty after Matuludi sustained a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a match against SuperSport United.

The injury has thrown Pirates’ plans into disarray. Sources close to the negotiations reveal that the club’s interest hinged on acquiring both players together. Now, Matuludi’s condition has altered the dynamics of the deal.

“Each and every passing day, things are taking a different direction concerning the deal,” a source close to the matter disclosed. “You remember at first we spoke about City being interested in Katlego Otladisa and could not get him, and then Pirates are believed to have offered Phillip Ndlondlo instead? And things stalled a bit. And now, Thabang Matuludi is injured. They can’t conclude the deal now because Matuludi is injured. This changes all the dynamics of the negotiations. So, at the moment, we don’t see the deal happening.”

Lengthy recovery puts Matuludi on the side lines

ACL injuries notoriously require extended recovery periods, making Matuludi a risky signing at this stage. Pirates may need to reconsider their options and possibly revisit negotiations later in the season.

“For now, what we know is that it’s an ACL, and you know such injuries take time to heal. No team would want to sign such an injured player,” another insider explained. “If anything, maybe they could wait until the end of the season and see what happens. So, the deal is in doubt at the moment due to the injury. Even though it could not work now, they are still interested in the player. As for Appollis, that means negotiations will take a new twist as Pirates are still interested in him, but it won’t involve Matuludi at this point.”

Focus shifts solely to Oswin Appollis

With Matuludi out of the picture, Pirates may redirect their attention to signing Appollis. This could simplify negotiations and allow the club to secure at least one of their targets. However, this shift opens the door for potential competition.

Appollis has previously been linked to Kaizer Chiefs, and this development might reignite Amakhosi’s interest. If Pirates fail to close the deal in January, Chiefs could re-enter the race later in the year.

What’s Next for Pirates and Appollis?

Orlando Pirates now face a challenging decision: pursue Appollis individually or wait for Matuludi’s recovery and risk losing their edge. This situation adds intrigue to the transfer window and keeps fans guessing about the club’s next move.

Stay tuned with The South African as Orlando Pirates transfer drama continues.

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