Orlando Pirates spent R11 million on Angolan winger Gilberto. Suffice it to say that the investment hasn’t paid off. How do they solve this problem?
Gilberto is struggling in Angola
After failing to become a regular in the Sea Robbers side, the Buccaneers loaned R11 million signing Gilberto back to his old club, Petro de Luanda, at the turn of the year. According to KickOff, the winger has taken his eye off the ball. The 24-year-old arrived with a big price and reputation, but only managed 11 appearances with zero goals and zero assists.
“Concerns have been raised about his fitness condition and lifestyle choices,” the outlet said.
“A video has recently been circulating of him lying on the floor shirtless, conversing with two females while holding a bottle of tequila in a room with plenty of other alcoholic beverages,” the publication added.
Who could Orlando Pirates sign to replace Gilberto?
Elias Mokwana
Although the former Sekhukhune man has only recently moved to Tunisia with Esperance, there have been complications over payments. Mokwana could be lured back to South Africa by a good offer, and Pirates are among the most attractive propositions.
Oswin Appollis
Polokwane City will be expecting offers for their star Bafana winger in the close season. Now 23, Appollis is a quality operator with great balance who can cause damage off either flank. If Pirates get good money for Saleng, Appollis’ big transfer fee shouldn’t be a problem.
Devin Titus
Stellenbosch’s 24-year-old winger could be a like-for-like replacement for Saleng as he enjoys hugging the right touchline. He’s not an inverted winger like Saleng, but since right-footer Relebohile Mofokeng already dazzles down the left, this isn’t much of an issue. Titus has impressed this campaign for Stellies, bagging seven goals and four assists in 25 league appearances. Those are quality numbers at this level.
Who would you like Orlando Pirates to sign in the winter window?
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