Orlando Pirates fighting to keep star after Raja Casablanca’s interest

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. 

RAJA CASABLANCA INTERESTED IN DLAMINI

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. Besides those players, playmaker Kabelo Dlamini will also see his deal at Pirates expire at the end of the season. This publication reported that Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca are interested in signing him. 

According to Soccer-Laduma, Pirates are aware of Casablanca’s interest and want to renew Dlamini’s deal. 

“Yes, it’s true his (Dlamini) current contract is coming to an end at the end of the season and the club (Pirates) has taken the initiative to table a new offer and keep him at the team for another three years. He didn’t start the season very well as he was not playing regularly but lately he has been part of the team in some important games which means the technical team is happy with his performance. Hence, there is this new offer for him,” said one source.

PIRATES LOOKING TO KEEP HIM

A second source claims that Pirates always valued Dlamini, despite the interest from Raja Casablanca. 

“They (Pirates) don’t want to lose him (Dlamini) for free to any team. The idea to renew his contract for another term was already in the team’s plans and the interest from Raja Casablanca has been a coincidence. That’s why they want him to stay at the team hence the three-year offer on the table for now,” said the source.

It remains to be seen if Dlamini remains at Pirates or accepts a new challenge at Raja Casablanca.

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