Steve Barker confirms midfielder Sihle Nduli is leaving Stellenbosch FC amid transfer rumours linking him with Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates have offered Stellenbosch midfielder Sihle Nduli a three-year deal, according to SABC Sport.

The Buccaneers are said to be close to signing the player as a free agent after he turned down renewing his Maroons contract.

Nduli is expected to come in as a replacement for Miguel Timm, who is about to be offloaded by Pirates.

To fuel the rumours that the defensive linkman is on his way to Pirates, Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker said the 29-year-old is leaving the Cape Winelands outfit and played his last game against Cape Town City on Saturday, where he was honoured with the armband.

“At this stage, there are obviously a couple of players for whom we won’t be renewing contracts. Obviously, the one that is leaving is Sihle Nduli,” said Barker as per FARPost. 

“Personally, I want to thank him for the person and the player and the passion that he has shown to this club, and we are happy for him that he is moving on. 

"That is one that we are aware of. Otherwise, the rest we are just looking at positions that we need to strengthen.”

According to SABC Sport, Nduli nearly joined Pirates during the PSL January transfer window, but a deal could not be sealed.

That could mean he is on his way to the Buccaneers as per Jose Riveiro's recommendation, and that would give the new coach confidence in the midfielder, given the Spaniard's spot-on eye in the transfer market.

The midfielder was a regular for Stellenbosch in the three seasons he was at the club and was instrumental in their maiden Caf Confederation Cup campaign this term.

As for Stellenbosch, they will have to look for Nduli's replacement, the way they have been able to able to deal with losing Iqraam Rayners and Jayden Adams this season alone.

Pirates could announce the signing of Nduli after confirming the new coach who will take over from Riveiro.

Should a deal to the Buccaneers be completed, Nduli would be fighting for playing time against the likes of Thalente Mbatha, Makhehlene Makhaula and Ndabayithethwa Ndlodlo.