Orlando Pirates have an array of star players at their disposal, but not all are expected to remain in Soweto before next season commences.
Bloemhof baller Monnapule Saleng is one of the main doubtful following a six-month PSL hiatus that has had him sidelined since early December. The 27-year-old seems sure to leave this offseason.
Orlando Pirates will likely try their hardest to keep starboy Relebohile Mofokeng in Soweto, who has several giants after his signature, including Jose Riveiro’s Al Ahly and Zamalek FC – the latter had an R25.8 million bid rejected earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the club will soon announce a new club captain following the release of Innocent Maela, with defender Nkosinathi Sibisi one of the favourites to take over armband duties, a rumour club legend Benedict Vilikazi approves, saying, “Though it puzzles me why Pirates keep releasing their captains, I believe Nkosinathi Sibisi would be a perfect replacement for Maela.”
New coach and player?
The Buccaneers have yet to name Riveiro’s successor, but the latest signs point to former Mamelodi Sundowns manager Rulani Mokwena as being on their radar. The PSL winner recently rejected Egyptian giants Zamalek.
A player Orlando Pirates would love to lure is Cape Town City youngster Jaedin Rhodes:
“One of those reinforcements could be a long-time target, Jaedin Rhodes. Although the 22-year-old has endured an underwhelming season with Cape Town City, he remains a high priority on the Buccaneers’ list,” a source said.
“The club [Orlando Pirates] has been met with resistance by City in previous attempts to lure Rhodes to Gauteng, but according to sources, will try once more in the upcoming window. Complicating matters will be the Citizens’ peculiar situation.”
Who else should Orlando Pirates sign?
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