Bucs close in on Tlolane

Orlando Pirates are believed to be closing in on Chippa United’s Tebogo ‘Messi’ Tlolane!

Tlolane, who is known for his prowess as a winger because of his speed and attacking ability, has been impressive at left back for Chippa since his arrival from Jomo Cosmos in the NFD.

Having started out in Buccaneers’ development system, with Yebo Yes United FC, Tlolane was spotted by renowned South African talent spotter Ephraim ‘Jomo’ Sono, who signed him in 2016, after the youngster was allowed to leave Pirates.

He has since grown in leaps and bounds much to the admiration of the Soweto giants, who want the 24-year-old back at the club. It is believed that Bucs want to follow the same procedure they went through when they signed Linda Mntambo, who had a stint with Chippa from Cosmos, before moving back to Gauteng at the end of last season.

“Pirates is very keen on Tebogo Tlolane and the issue of a possible move for him was in discussions in January. I think it might have been finalised now and don’t be surprised to see the boy leave Chippa for Pirates at the end of the season,” said the source.

Parable Hlatshwayo, who knows Tlolane from his development days at Pirates, confirmed Bucs’ interest in the player. “I was the one who sent the player to Chippa from Cosmos. I know the boy from his development days at Yebo Yes. That was before I changed from being involved in club football to representing players,” said Hlatshwayo.

“The player is still contracted to Chippa, but Rhulani Mokwena knows the boy well and he is the one who is keen on luring him to Pirates,” he added.

Contacted for comment about Pirates’ interest in Tlolane, Chippa CEO Morgan Mammila denied knowledge of a possible move.

“As the club, we don’t know anything about that, so I can’t comment on it,” said Mammila.