Orlando Pirates want to let go of Gilberto, so a foreign spot in their squad will be opening up. Could a new striker fill it?
Pirates want to sign Kaizer Chiefs target Mayele
Orlando Pirates have allegedly opened talks with Pyramids FC striker Fiston Mayele. The Congolese marksman, ironically, sent Pirates out of the Caf Champions League with a brace in the semi-final second leg, which the Egyptian side won 3-2, giving them a 3-2 aggregate triumph after a goalless draw in South Africa. Another attacker on the Pirates shopping list is 26-year-old Brazilian Raphael Lopes, who plies his trade for Maltese side Hamrun Spartans. 23-year-old Zambian marksman Andrew Phiri was on trial with the Buccaneers in April and impressed the club’s technical team. Kwame Opoku from Asante Kotoko is also an option for the Sea Robbers.
Who could Orlando Pirates sign to replace Gilberto?
24-year-old Angolan winger Gilberto is seemingly headed out of the club. Here are a few potential replacements for the Petro de Luanda man.
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 wantaway winger Monnapule Saleng, or indeed for Gilberto, 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 Gilberto as he enjoys hugging the right touchline. He’s not an inverted winger, 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.
Which of these strikers is at the top of your list?
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