Orlando Pirates ready to offload promising youngster!

Orlando Pirates are already planning for the next season, with both incomings and outgoings in focus.

Pirates made a number of signings during the off-season, as well as the January transfer window. 

They signed  Melusi Buthelezi from TS Galaxy, Siphelo Baloni from All Stars FC and Katlego Otladisa from Marumo Gallants. They were joined by Karim Kimvuidi, Lesedi Kapinga and Patrick Maswanganyi. Then in January, Pirates added the duo of Thabiso Lebitso and Thalenthe Mbatha. In January, stalwart Thembinkosi Lorch and Bienvenu Eva Nga both left the club for Mamelodi Sundowns and Chippa United respectfully. 

Those players are expected to be followed out of the exit door by a few more, in the coming window. The likes of Zakhele Lepasa, Souaibou Marou, Sandile Mthethwa, among those touted for an exit. Another name that could enter that list soon is goalkeeper Richard Ofori. The Ghanaian international has been at least third choice for the past two seasons at Pirates. 

Matrose struggling at Pirates

Another player who was even expected to leave on loan at the start of this season is Azola Matrose. The young midfielder enjoyed a fruitful loan at Chippa last season, with others expecting him to go on another loan spell. But to the surprise of many, he stayed at Pirates with the promise of fighting for his place. 

A serious injury has since ruled Matrose out for the bulk of the season, having just returned. Now according to The Citizen, Pirates are ready to loan him back to Chippa again next season.

Another loan to Chippa?

“Talks have already started between Chippa and Pirates. He is happy to go back to Chippa because he was a regular player there. He (Matrose) knows that if he performs well at Chippa, he’ll be recalled anytime even during the January transfer period,” said the source. 

Pirates and Chippa could be set for yet another window of player movements, with Matrose just one possible deal.