Orlando Pirates' Christmas transfer wish list will ruffle some feathers

TS Galaxy's 21-year-old central defender is a classy operator and not even close to his peak.

He seems to be the most obvious candidate to step into Mbokazi's massive boots.

Already a key figure for Bafana Bafana, the Buccaneers could do worse than sealing a move for him before he potentially stars in Morocco, and that transfer fee swells. 

Ndamane is Bafana's best young defender aside from Mbokazi. Pirates must move mountains to snap him up. 

Defensive units win titles, and Ndamane would add depth to an already impressive roster. With Sundowns reportedly sniffing around the talented star, Pirates must act fast. 

Pirates are pretty stacked at the sharp end of the pitch with the likes of Evidence Makgopa, Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshegofatso Mabasa vying for the number nine role, although Makgopa is comfortably the top pick as things stand. 

Pirates boss Ouaddou seems to be happy with his striking options, hinting that he won't dip into the market for another one, and could promote Sifiso Luthuli from within the youth ranks after an impressive showing and a goal against the Carling All Stars. 

This doesn't mean the Sea Robbers won't make a move for a number 10. Stellenbosch star Andre De Jong is known for his work ethic, selflessness and appreciation of space. Plenty of pundits believe it was De Jong's creativity that got the best out of Iqraam Rayners in the Winelands before he landed a move to Sundowns.

The 29-year-old could provide competition for Patrick Maswanganyi and Sipho Mbule. 

This term, versatile 21-year-old Puso Dithejane has taken his output up a notch with four goals and four assists from 12 starts in the league for TS Galaxy. Although Pirates have an abundance of quality wingers, there's a growing belief that Relebohile Mofokeng's long-term future lies away from the club. Dithejane's ability to play anywhere on the right-hand side or even in central midfield makes him a potentially shrewd acquisition. A move for Dithejane would also annoy Kaizer Chiefs fans.

23-year-old Golden Arrows man Siyanda Ndlovu would be a very decent backup option if a move for Dithejane doesn't materialise. 

Deon Hotto has served Pirates with distinction since 2020, but the evergreen Namibian is starting to get a little long in the tooth.

At 35, he's still producing quality displays whenever called upon and has four direct goal contributions this season from nine league appearances. However, nothing lasts forever.

Dutban City's Mfanafuthi Mkhize has been an ever-present for the PSL newcomers this season, appearing in all 15 of their league matches. The 27-year-old would be a solid, ready-made replacement for Hotto. 

We don't need to remind you of the drama and baggage existing between Monnapule Saleng and Orlando Pirates. Nobody really knows what went down, but it feels extremely unlikely that the winger will return after his current loan spell with Orbit College comes to an end. There are irreconcilable differences between the player and the club. For the record, Saleng has two goals and three assists this campaign, showing glimpses of the player who won PSL Player of the Season in 2022/23. 

Piates have several wide attackers, but Saleng will almost certainly leave, while others could be tempted by foreign offers. 

A goal-scoring winger could suddenly become a priority for the board.