Orlando Pirates are reportedly nearing their first signing for the 2024/25 season, according to local reports.
The Soweto giants are undergoing a minor squad revamp, having already released six players following the end of the previous season.
These include Souaibou Marou, Fortune Makaringe, Thabang Monare, Kermit Erasmus, Richard Ofori, and Siyabonga Mpontshane.
While some of the aforementioned are still looking for new homes, Thabang Monare has put pen to paper at Sekhukhune while Fortune Makaringe has reportedly agreed terms with Cape Town City.
The Sea Robbers are now bringing in replacements on board as they’re bolstering a team for Jose Riveiro ahead of the campaign that will present them with a busy schedule.
According to iDiski Times, Pirates’ bid for Petro de Luanda winger Gilberto has been accepted by the Angolan giants Petro de Luanda.
The report further revealed that Pirates tabled $600 000 (R10.9 million) in order to acquire the services of the 23-year-old.
It appears the player’s buyout clause stood at $750 000 (R13.6 million), however, the clubs sealed the deal for a lower sum.
Ezimnyama Ngenkani beat Raja Casablanca, Sivasspor, CR Belouizdad, AS FAR, MKE Ankaragücü and Club Dynamo Makhachkala to the player’s signing. However, Pirates and Gilberto have yet to agree on personal terms.
Gilberto, the young Angolan winger, was initially offered to Mamelodi Sundowns, who reportedly rejected him despite having impressed against them in the African Football League.
He joined Petro in 2022 and scored six goals and registered four assists during his stint with the club. Meanwhile, he has scored twice in seven caps he has secured with Angola national team.
RETURNING LOANEES, WILL THEY BE KEPT?
Meanwhile, Pirates still have to make decisions on the players who will be returning from loan spells.
Goodman Mosele
After spending last season with Chippa United, 24-year-old midfielder Mosele faces uncertainty. Though reports suggest Chippa wants him back on loan, it's unclear if coach Riveiro sees him in his plans for Orlando Pirates.
Sphamandla Gumede
According to FARPost, Pirates will keep Gumede for next season with the club currently left with Sipho Chaine and Melusi Buthelezi in the goalkeeping department after parting ways with Ofori and Mpontshane.
Gumede signed for the club last season after shining in the Nedbank Cup with Dondol Stars. He was loaned out to Orbit College in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Boitumelo Radiopane
The 22-year-old forward has been struggling with injuries. Radiopane has spent two seasons on loan at Cape Town Spurs. He appears unlikely to go out on loan next season.
