Prosport International agent Mike Makaab has opened up on Bandile Shandu’s next move, revealing to FARPost that talks are at an advanced stage for the versatile right-back to join Durban City FC.
Shandu is currently a free agent after parting ways with the reigning Betway Premiership champions, Orlando Pirates, at the end of the 2025/26 season. The talented defender left the Soweto giants following the expiry of his contract on June 30, 2026.
Shandu’s departure from Pirates brought an end to a successful five-season spell, having originally joined the club in July 2021. Interestingly, the utility star signed with the Sea Robbers from Maritzburg United—the very club that rebranded as Durban City FC in 2024 while competing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Having returned to the South African top-flight at the start of last season, Durban City enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign, winning the Nedbank Cup and securing a top-eight finish in the league. As Durban City aim to consolidate their place in the Premiership and challenge for more domestic silverware, they have earmarked Shandu as a priority signing.
BANDILE SHANDU SET TO WORK WITH KHALIL BEN YOUSSEF
The 31-year-old is set to join the KwaZulu-Natal-based side to play under former Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef, who took over the hot seat last week.
Shandu will bring a wealth of experience to Durban City, having racked up 110 appearances for Orlando Pirates across all competitions, contributing 11 goals and five assists. During his time in Soweto, he lifted four MTN8 titles, the Nedbank Cup, the Carling Knockout Cup, and the Betway Premiership.
Speaking to FARPost, Makaab confirmed that Durban City are in the final stages of securing the versatile player, who can comfortably operate at right-back, on the right wing, or in central midfield.
“For Bandile Shandu, we are close to concluding a deal with Durban City. Talks are at an advanced stage, and we are hoping to finalise everything during the course of this week,” Makaab told FARPost.
RELATED STORY: Makaab issues major update on Bandile Shandu’s future at Pirates