Premier Soccer League side Orlando Pirates confirmed the arrival of Angolan winger Delvi Miguel Vieira who is commonly referred to as Gilberto.
The Sea Robbers recently released six players, and in their bid to strengthen, they have added a quality player with experience at both club and international levels.
The Soweto giants have confirmed the development ahead of their pre-season where they are scheduled to camp in Spain and play the likes of Plymouth Argyle, Sevilla and Al Sadd SC.
“The 23-year-old joins the Club on a three-year deal after passing a medical and finalising personal terms,” Bucs confirmed.
“Delvi, who is better known as Gilberto, joins the Buccaneers after two seasons with Angolan Girabola champions Petro de Luanda.
“Gilberto is due to fly back to Angola today to finalise the necessary paperwork so that he can join the squad for its outbound Preseason Tour to Spain from July 8.”
Who is Pirates' new signing Gilberto?
The winger was developed at Real Sambila before Libolo came for his services. His quality and exploits attracted Petro de Luanda who signed him in 2022.
In the 2023/24 season, Gilberto played 24 games for his club across all competitions – 13 were in Girabola where he scored five goals and provided two assists, he made nine appearances in the Caf Champions League managing to create two assists as Pedro reached the quarter-final but fell against TP Mazembe. The remaining two games were in the inaugural African Football League.
The winger was part of the Angola national team that reached the last eight in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before falling against eventual finalists Nigeria.
What is Gilberto bringing to Pirates?
Despite being just 23, the attacker is an established player who can play either on the right or left flank.
He has already won the league and domestic Cup in Angola, meaning he knows the taste of crowns which is important for any player. It will underline the Soweto giants' intent to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the Premier Soccer League title.
His experience in international competitions is a massive boost for the Sea Robbers who will play in the Caf Champions League and most probably make their debut in the African Football League.
Most importantly, Gilberto will increase competition in the attacking department as well as bring another dimension for coach Jose Riveiro's team.
