Orlando Pirates want a rising forward, but the club says hands off!

Orlando Pirates want a rising forward but his current club says hands off for now. Pirates are poised for a strategic transfer move as Cape Town Spurs’ relegation threat looms large, according to two sources close to the clubs.

Orlando Pirates eyeing strategic move amidst Cape Town Spurs’ relegation threat

“Pirates didn’t want to disturb Cape Town Spurs. That’s why they only proposed that they could only get Ashley (Cupido) if Spurs are relegated. They want to keep the youngster in the DStv Premiership next season and he is one of their targets on top of the ones they have already inquired about,” shared a source with Soccer Laduma.

The potential transfer of the Spurs forward Cupido could also see Pirates’ loanee Boitumelo Radiopane making a permanent switch to Spurs.

“If all goes according to plan then Radiopane could stay at Spurs while Cupido could move to Pirates. But as you have heard, it will depend on the status of Spurs in the DStv Premiership. If they are relegated or not,” explained a second source.

Pirates have been closely monitoring Cupido since last season. They were impressed by his performance in the Motsepe Foundation Championship too. The 23-year-old forward has showcased his scoring prowess, netting six goals in 23 DStv Premiership games this season.

The potential move underscores Pirates’ commitment to talent development and squad strengthening, especially as they gear up for continental competitions next season. 

Potential transfer deal hinges on DStv Premiership fate

Meanwhile, Cape Town Spurs remain focused on retaining their squad despite their precarious league position. Club CEO Alexi Efstathiou emphasised the importance of unity and continuity. Stating, “we’ve been together for a few seasons now and the club has spent a lot of resources on this group of players. It will be a wasted investment to break up the group now as we are building a team for the future,” as per iDiski Times. 

As Spurs battle to avoid relegation with four matches remaining. The fate of their players hangs in the balance. The club’s outlook remains optimistic, with Efstathiou highlighting the players’ responsibility to secure their future in the top flight.

A source close to Ashley Cupido has said that the Orlando Pirates link as of now is not true and only a rumour. In the past, there were also previous links between the Urban Warriors forward and SuperSport United.  

“No, this is not true. As of today, there has been no contact from Pirates,” the source told The South African directly. 

“No talks with Pirates, but I know they like him.”

Spurs face crucial fixtures against Royal AM and SuperSport United. Their survival hopes rest on positive results in these encounters.