Maritzburg United have confirmed the signing of Mamelodi Sundowns duo Kwanda Mngonyama and Sibusiso Kumalo.

Both players have joined on a season-long loan deal and are expected to be first team regulars during the campaign.

“After losing a number of players from the previous season, Maritzburg United are busy shopping around for replacements, and the latest acquisitions are Kwanda Mngonyama who plays centre back, as well as Sibusiso Khumalo, who is a central midfielder, both signed on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns,” the club confirmed in a media statement.

“Both have been signed on for a season with the Team of Choice. MUFC is still looking to beef up in the left back, right back and striking departments.

“There were some trialists as well, and a decision will be made on them within a week. MUFC are determined to put together a squad that will take the momentum from last season forward.”

Mngonyama made a good impression in his first season of PSL football last campaign with Bidvest Wits. He had to return to parent club Sundowns, however, and they surprisingly allowed him to transfer to Maritzburg.

Meanwhile central midfielder Kumalo battled for game-time after the move from Moroka Swallows at the start of the season and will be looking to revive his career.

Maritzburg have also signed veteran Ghana centre-back John Paintsil but they have said goodbye to Ruben Cloete (Bloemfontein Celtic) as well as defenders Mario Booysen and Rheece Evans (both Sundowns).

Former captain Michael Morton signed a pre-contract with SuperSport United in January, and Namibian international Heinrich Isaacks has been released. Orlando Smeekes, Peter Petersen, Robyn Johannes, Delron Buckley and Dillon Sheppard were all released and Bhongolwethu Jayiya has returned to Bidvest Wits after six months on loan.