Latest update on Ayabulela Maxwele amid Pirates, Chiefs interest

Foot Africa can confirm that Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs have both cooled down their interest in Golden Arrows attacking midfielder Ayabulela Maxwele.

The 26-year-old playmaker emerged as one of the standout performers for Abafana Bes'thende last season, ultimately drawing interest from the bitter Soweto rivals.

He chipped in with three goals and two assists in 29 matches across all competitions for Arrows in the previous campaign under then-head coach Manqoba Mngqithi.

Notably, Maxwele signed for the KwaZulu-Natal outfit in March 2025 after the expulsion of Royal AM from the PSL towards the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.

Now, sources have indicated that Betway Premiership champions Pirates and their adversaries Chiefs have somewhat taken a step back in their pursuit of the player.

Whether the two teams will return to the negotiation table with Arrows and Maxwele's camp remains to be seen, having both held exploratory talks over a possible move.

This publication contacted the player's representative Mike Makaab of Prosport International for clarity on the situation, with the 2026/27 campaign fast approaching.

“There has been no further engagement. There was initial interest,” the renowned football agent who manages a host of high-profile players told Foot Africa.

With more than a month of the off-season Premier Soccer League (PSL) transfer window remaining, a change of stance from Pirates and Chiefs cannot be ruled out.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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Orlando Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs

Lamontville Golden Arrows