Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns look set to go head-to-head for the signature of Steven Pienaar in this transfer window.

Read – Pienaar: I’d Consider Pirates First

Pienaar is a free agent at present, having been re­leased from his contract with Ever­ton in the English Premier League.

With Pienaar’s future having been the subject of speculation in recent weeks, Pirates and Sundowns are the two local clubs that are said to have been serious in their pursuit of the player in this transfer window.

As reported in this week’s edition of Soccer Laduma, the former Bafana Bafana midfielder is expected to make a decision on his future in the upcoming weeks.

Although Pienaar is believed to have been weigh­ing up his options on a potential move, with a likelihood of looking for a last deal overseas before returning home, sources have indicated the PSL is another option for him. The player himself has also told Soccer Laduma that he would be keen on playing for the Sea Robbers one day, which may work in Pirates' favour.

The Buccaneers have shown in this transfer window that they want to strengthen the team for Muhsin Ertugral with as much quality as they possibly can, before the start of the 2016/17 season.

Already, Bucs have confirmed signing Ghanaian forward Bernard Morrison from AS Vita Club in DRC, while busy finalising personal terms with Abbubaker Mobara and Riyaad Norodien from Ajax Cape Town.

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Depending on the negotiations that are likely to take place between the parties involved for the potential deal, 'Schillo' could be set to finish his illustrious career at Pirates like Benni McCarthy did when he joined the Soweto giants on his return from overseas. However, Sundowns are unlikely to watch that happen without a fight.