Sipho Mbule could be set for a fresh chapter in his career, with Siwelele FC emerging as keen suitors while Orlando Pirates weigh up whether to activate the option in his contract.
Indications are that Siwelele has communicated their interest in the experienced midfielder, as they begin shaping their squad for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.
However, the club is aware that Mbule’s immediate future remains with Pirates, who hold an option to extend his contract by a further two years. The 28-year-old joined the Buccaneers as a free agent at the start of the season after parting ways with Mamelodi Sundowns. He signed a one-year deal that expires at the end of June.
While Pirates are yet to publicly indicate whether they will retain him, Siwelele are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to move should he become available.
SIWELELE SEE MBULE AS AN IDEAL ADDITION
FARPost has been told that Siwelele view Mbule as an ideal addition to a youthful squad, with his experience at both domestic and international level seen as a major asset. Despite enduring a stop-start campaign, Mbule featured 23 times across all competitions for Pirates and was also part of the South Africa squad that competed at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
An injury setback, coupled with limited opportunities during the second half of the season, restricted his impact. Nevertheless, his quality remains highly regarded within South African football circles.
The midfielder added another league winners’ medal to his collection this season as Pirates secured the Betway Premiership title. Bucs’ triumph marked the third league title of his career, having previously won two championships during his spell at Sundowns. He has also lifted the MTN8 trophy twice, first with SuperSport United and later with Pirates.
A move to Siwelele would carry added significance given the club’s roots. Siwelele FC acquired SuperSport United’s status last season, the very club that groomed Mbule.
Now approaching 200 senior appearances, the former South African youth international could offer invaluable experience as Siwelele prepare for their second season.
For now, though, all eyes remain on Pirates and whether they decide to trigger the option that could keep Mbule at the club beyond June. Until that decision is made, Siwelele’s pursuit remains firmly on standby.
RELATED STORY: Gayton McKenzie’s message to Sipho Mbule after Bafana snub for World Cup