Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

The bitter dispute between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs over ownership of Siphelele Mthembu has dramatically turned to amateur side, Maritzburg City.

Sowetan has been reliably informed that Amakhosi are now alleging that Mthembu was misrepresented by his former club, City, during the transfer negotiations.

Chiefs, represented by Bobby Motaung and Abdullah Mayet, have since dumped their initial accusation that Bucs 'induced' Mthembu into signing for them.

They put the blame on City's co-director Bongi Hlophe, who Pirates indicated had only come into the picture when a deal between the two clubs had been finalised.

It has since been established that Bucs negotiated with City co-director Reggie Shilembe, with Hlophe only coming in late.

Sources told Sowetan that Pirates have to date successfully cleared themselves from any wrongdoing, a fact also supported by Chiefs' testimony.

Pirates are in possession of Mthembu's PSL card but the striker has only featured for Amakhosi during off-season competitions.

As things stand, Mthembu and the two clubs have completed their testimonies and will now submit their heads of agreement.

Chiefs will submit their's today, a copy of which should also be given to Pirates, who have until Wednesday to respond. The Dispute Resolution Chamber will study the heads of agreement. Pronouncement on the matter will be made on October 6. Bucs are represented by administration executive manager Floyd Mbele. Motaung, Mbele and PSL prosector Zola Majavu could not be reached for comment.