Orlando Pirates FC have sold goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi to Sekhukhune United, just days after the club confirmed his exit. The 28-year-old shot-stopper has signed a long-term deal with Babina Noko, ending his three-year spell at the Soweto giants.

Why did Orlando Pirates sell Buthelezi?

Buthelezi joined Pirates from TS Galaxy in July 2023. He was part of a trophy-laden squad that won last season's league title. But he never became first choice. Sipho Chaine held the No. 1 spot under both Jose Riveiro and current coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Sources told KickOff that Buthelezi had just signed a new contract with Pirates before the move. Sekhukhune paid a transfer fee to buy him. "People may think Pirates just released him, but that's not the case. He was sold," a source said.

What does Buthelezi's exit mean for Pirates?

Pirates sit 1st in the Premier Soccer League with 69 points from 30 games (21W-6D-3L, recent form WDWWD). They have scored 58 goals and conceded just 12, a +46 goal difference. They lead Mamelodi Sundowns by 1 point at the top.

With Chaine firmly established and the club chasing another title, keeping a backup keeper on a new deal made little sense. Selling Buthelezi recoups a fee and clears wages. Pirates have depth in goal, so this won't hurt their title push.

What's next for Buthelezi at Sekhukhune?

Buthelezi gets a fresh start in Limpopo. Sekhukhune, now coached by former Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze, want regular first-team football from him. The keeper will hope to rediscover the form that earned him his Pirates move in the first place.

At TS Galaxy, Buthelezi was a standout. He made consistent saves and commanded his box. Sekhukhune are betting he can do that again. An official announcement is expected soon.

How does this affect Pirates' squad depth?

Pirates still have Chaine as their undisputed No. 1. Behind him, the club has young options and experienced cover. Losing Buthelezi doesn't weaken the squad. It frees up a foreign or domestic slot, depending on registration rules.

The Buccaneers are focused on the league run-in. With a 1-point lead over Sundowns, every decision counts. This sale is a clean, business-like move. Pirates got a fee for a player who wasn't playing. That's smart squad management.