Orlando Pirates are set to open talks with a Royal AM goalkeeper, following the recent release of two experienced goalkeepers from their squad, the Siya crew has been informed.
Soccer Laduma had previously reported Bucs' interest in Chippa United keeper Stanley Nwabali but they are also looking at other targets.
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Now, Siya sources close to the club have indicated that Xolani Ngcobo, whose contract with Royal AM is set to expire, is a wanted man.
"The latest is that Pirates are after Xolani (Ngcobo) from Royal AM. They want to boost their squad since the release of Richard Ofori and Siyabonga Mpontshane. It's believed that the talks may have started between the player's representatives and the clubs involved and it looks very positive. They want an experienced goalkeeper to add to their squad as they will be involved in more tournaments this season. So, they are looking at bringing in Xolani (Ngcobo)," the Siya source stated.
A second insider close to the player highlighted a significant opportunity for Pirates, noting that Ngcobo could be signed without a transfer fee.
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"His contract with Royal AM is coming to an end on Sunday and they have not shown any signs of renewing it or exercising the option to extend. So Pirates would get him on a free as from Monday next week he will be a free agent and he would be happy to join a big team like Orlando Pirates," the second source stated.
Soccer Laduma reached out to the player's agent, Touch Afrika's Thabang Mncwabe, who confirmed that Ngcobo's contract is indeed expiring on June 30, though he could neither confirm nor deny negotiations with Pirates.
The 30-year-old former Free State Stars goalkeeper made six appearances for Royal AM last season. His potential move to Pirates could provide him with a fresh start and a chance to compete at a higher level, especially given the club's involvement in multiple competitions in the upcoming season.
Soccer Laduma contacted Pirates for comment but the club had not responded by the time this report was published.
Pirates' pursuit of Ngcobo could be part of a broader strategy to reinforce their goalkeeping options following recent departures. Securing Ngcobo on a free transfer could be a cost-effective move for the Buccaneers, allowing them to utilize their resources in other areas of the squad.
