The latest news reaching Soccer Laduma is that Orlando Pirates could be facing a tough challenge in their pursuit of in-demand midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki in this transfer window.
Azi Ki has had a stellar season with Tanzanian giants Young Africans, who won their 30th league title in the club's history during a record-breaking 2023/24 campaign, marking their third consecutive win.
The Burkina Faso attacker scored 21 goals and finished the season as the top goal scorer in Tanzania. Pirates, who are among a host of clubs understood to have been interested in the 28-year-old, have revived their interest, according to sources.
Following the completion of their cup double after winning the Nedbank Cup on the final day of the season, the Buccaneers have started making squad changes in preparation for next season. The Soweto giants have two foreign spots open in their squad after parting ways with Cameroonian striker Souaibou Marou this week to follow his countryman Bienvenu Eva Nga, who left the club in January for Chippa United.
Having also parted ways with Fortune Makaringe, who has been with the club for five years, Bucs will possibly reinforce their attacking department for what is expected to be a busy 2024/25 season.
According to sources, attempts to get Aziz Ki next season could be met with challenges.
"Stephane Aziz Ki remains one of the sought-after players in this transfer window following the impressive season he has had in Tanzania. Several African clubs have showed interest in the player and are keen to sign him, including Orlando Pirates," said the source.
"On the other side, the player's employers Young Africans aren't willing to just let go and are doing everything in their power to tie him on a new and improved contract," the source said.
"There is also AS FAR Rabat from Morocco, who have been interested in the player, which could make it more difficult for Pirates to get him," the source concluded.
