THE transfer window is open in South Africa, with players able to move between clubs.

The Times' soccer writer Nick Said takes a look at what the final five Absa Premier League teams need in order to beef up their squads for the 2012-13 season.

Orlando Pirates

Pirates have always had a big squad of players and also players who can play in a variety of positions.

They might look at a new right-back as cover for Happy Jele, though skipper Lucky Lekgwathi did that job admirably in the last campaign. But he will be 36 this year and cannot go on forever.

The team will also be keen to add another striker to the mix, even if they keep hold of Tokelo Rantie on a permanent basis.

Platinum Stars

Stars are undergoing a major overhaul of their squad and are looking for players in all positions, bar perhaps out wide.

Key areas will be the centre of defence, centre of midfield and probably at least two new strikers.

They have excellent width in both the fullback and wing positions. They also need a new coach.

Supersport United

Supersport have always battled to hold onto their stars and in the last six months have lost three key men, Anthony Laffor, Morgan Gould and Tebogo Langerman.

As ever, coach Gavin Hunt will have a rebuilding job on his hands. He has already signed Bevan Fransman to replace Gould, but needs a new left-back for sure.

Supersport have fire-power up front, especially if Hunt can persuade Glen Salmon to play another year. Central midfield is also a worry.

University of Pretoria

They need additions everywhere.

The step-up from the National First Division will be huge for the players. For that reason, the club returned for pre-season on Monday already as coach Steve Barker looks at a whole host of trialists to add experience and depth to his squad.

Wits

What Wits need most of all is experience.

They have an excellent crop of youngsters, but need to add some wise old heads to the mix.

They also need a forward to replace the departed Sifiso Vilakazi, and have already beefed up the midfield with the acquisition of Matthew Pattison.

They will also be searching for a new left back, with Patrick Phungwayo and Enrico Adolph set to depart.