the monitor

Who's the better cook as transfer window simmers?

Arrival: Chiefs recently signed midfielder Gilbert Baruti from Jwaneng Galaxy PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE
Arrival: Chiefs recently signed midfielder Gilbert Baruti from Jwaneng Galaxy PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE

Mochudi Centre Chiefs’ acquisition of midfielder Gilbert Baruti from Jwaneng Galaxy might just go down as the marquee signing of the current transfer window.

It is a deal that caught many local fans off guard, as Baruti was regarded as a central figure in Galaxy’s setup. He joins Magosi on a three-year deal, becoming their 12th signing since the window officially opened on July 1. The four-time league champions have been the most active in the market so far, making clear their intentions to bounce back in the 2025–2026 FNB Premiership, and they are far from done. Chiefs are involved in a tug-of-war with Galaxy over the signatures of Thabo Leinanyane and Thabang Sesinyi. Leinanyane is the longest-serving captain in Galaxy’s Premier League era, boasting over 300 appearances for the club. Sesinyi, a proven goalscorer with three Golden Boot awards, has been Galaxy’s sharpest weapon in recent seasons. Both players re-joined Galaxy’s pre-season training and medicals this week, but are out of contract and remain in talks with both clubs.

Meanwhile, Galaxy appear to be undergoing a major transition under the newly appointed coach, Sean Connor. The Irishman has begun by clearing out four members of the technical team and is overseeing a squad reshuffle. Galaxy are said to be closing in on former Matebele skipper Moses Shidolo, whilst several key players, including Doctor David, Karabo Gaolebale, Wendell Rudath, Mxolisi Mkhonto, and Goitseone Phoko are tipped to leave. Connor is eyeing former Young Zebras goalkeeper Cedric Ramojela, who impressed under him at Matebele FC. Ramojela’s arrival could push Phoko to the market, with Gaborone United (GU) circling. GU have been smart in their transfer approach and have already added goalkeeper Tshepo Mooketsi from TAFIC, full-back Shaun Phillip, and centre-back Ivan Kamberipa from Orapa United. They have also locked down Omphile Ramoagi and Mothusi Johnson with five- and two-year extensions, respectively. Their exit list includes Ezekiel Morake, Leungo Ratala, Mateus Domingos, and Omphile Phale. Phale has gone across town to join Township Rollers. Popa have also signed Utlwanang Ramakgathi from Matebele FC and welcomed back Bophelo Kealeboga and Thapelo Balatlheng from loan spells. They are now finalising an extension for stalwart Mosha Gaolaolwe, who has re-joined preseason training. Up north, Orapa United have bolstered their ranks with Thabo Babutsi and Amogelang Reetsang from Rollers and TAFIC, respectively. New coach Elias Chinyemba is also reportedly keen on full-back Leruo Ratala.

Editor's Comment
Depression is real; let's take care of our mental health

It is not uncommon in this part of the world for parents to actually punish their children when they show signs of depression associating it with issues of indiscipline, and as a result, the poor child will be lashed or given some kind of punishment. We have had many suicide cases in the country and sadly some of the cases included children and young adults. We need to start looking into issues of mental health with the seriousness it...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up