By strengthening their playing unit, the Brazilians are sending a clear message to their rivals that they mean business. So far, the Tshwane giants have confirmed the signing of Brayan Leon from Colombia and Monnapule Saleng from Orlando Pirates. The signing of the Bafana defender means there will be no void left in the defensive department after Lucas Suarez's exit.

The 26-year-old has become another Mamelodi Sundowns player to have his loan spell cut short, either because of limited game time or the parent club’s desire to have him back. This follows the release of fellow loanee Matías Esquivel by Greek side AE Kifisia after his stint abroad failed to gain momentum. Closer to home, Khulumani Ndamane is also reported to be on his way out of TS Galaxy, having been loaned out shortly after signing for Masandawana.

After making only four signings at the start of the 2025/26 season, Fawaaz Basadien, Tsiki Ntsabeleng on loan from FC Dallas, Nuno Santos and Miguel Reisinho, one feels Masandawana are still searching for the perfect balance to sustain their dominance. The Brazilians remain strong contenders, but the Premier Soccer League CAF Champions League demands more depth and fresh energy.

The Buccaneers’ Christmas wishlist indicates to just some fine-tuning rather than a major overhaul as they head into the January player transfer window. While the Soweto giants look well stocked in all departments, they are still expected to into the market to add extra quality and depth. This is driven by the fact that they remain in the hunt for the PSL title and the Nedbank Cup.

Pirates have a large and settled squad, but a little sprinkling of extra quality over January could be just the ticket and take them over the line in what promises to be a tight title race with champions Sundowns. Which players can take them there?