In their search for a goalkeeper, Kaizer Chiefs' biggest rivals Orlando Pirates are understood to have renewed their interest in Veli Mothwa.
From two years ago, the player had been the subject of interest from the two Soweto giants, following the progress he made as Usuthu's number one, which included him helping the side finish second in the DStv Premiership under Benni McCarthy in the 2020/21 season.
While previous attempts to lure the goalminder from the Durban-based club have been unsuccessful, the Buccaneers are understood to be keen on giving it a go again as the goalkeeping department is one of the areas of concern for coach Jose Riveiro and his technical team in planning for next season.
Pirates still have veteran goalkeepers Siyabonga Mpontshane and Richard Ofori facing uncertain future with the club as their contracts will be expiring in June.
While Bucs had been strongly linked with Chippa United and Nigeria national team number one, Stanley Nwabali, a potential move for the Africa Cup of Nations silver medallist could be met with complications.
According to sources, the 27-year-old, who recently extended his contract with the Chilli Boys to June 2026, is currently priced out of the South African market, with indications that both he and his camp, as well as the Gqeberha-based outfit, are hoping for an overseas move instead.
Indications from sources close to Pirates and AmaZulu are that Mothwa has emerged as the main target for Bucs in the final stages of the 2023/24 season.
"Veli Mothwa has emerged as a transfer target for Pirates again. He has done well for AmaZulu since joining the club from Chippa in 2020 and Pirates have been following his progress," said a source.
"AmaZulu appreciate the player's contribution to the club and won't stand in his way if an opportunity to further his career elsewhere arises. Expect progress on this at the end of the season as AmaZulu and Pirates also enjoy a good relationship," the source added.
As per the Siya crew's records, Mothwa is nearing the end of the two-year contract extension he signed in 2022, although the KwaZulu-Natal side have an option of another two years to extend the deal.
