New Bafana Bafana striker Yanela Mbuthuma reacts to reported Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates interest - 'So I can just prove myself even more'

Richards Bay forward Yanela Mbuthuma has reacted to the transfer rumours linking him with Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

Since the beginning of this year, the 23-year-old striker has been said to be a target of the Soweto giants.

The player himself has opened up on the reported transfer interest as his profile continues to grow after ending the 2024/25 season as arguably Richards Bay's best performer.

“I don’t pay attention to that a lot because I play to entertain people, not because I wanna impress big teams,” said Mbuthuma as per FARPost. 

“For now, that’s not in my mind. I’m still okay at Richards Bay, so I can just prove myself even more.”

The Natal Rich Boyz forward has an opportunity to shine in the international friendly matches if given a chance to play and these are games he is looking forward to.

“I’m very happy that I have been given an opportunity and was called to the national team,” Mbuthuma said.

“I just want to score more goals so that I can progress even more and grow as a striker.

“I was very shocked when I got this opportunity because I wasn’t expecting it. When I first started playing football, I wasn’t even picturing myself at this level. So, I’m still shocked.”

In May, Mbuthuma signed a long-term deal with Richards Bay as confirmed by the Natal Rich Boyz chairman Jomo Biyela.

That might increase his value in the transfer market, which could make his suitors fork out a lot of money for him.

Also, now that he is set to be a full South Africa international after being included in the Bafana squad for the upcoming friendly matches against Tanzania and Mozambique, Mbuthuma might not go cheaply to Chiefs or Pirates.

The promising player is set to join the South Africa camp ahead of the matches against Tanzania and Mozambique.

He will be keen to impress in order to cement his place in Hugo Broos' squad.