The future of striker Zakhele Lepasa at Orlando Pirates is once again a topic of intense speculation, with fresh rumours swirling about a potential departure from the Soweto giants.
While Lepasa's start to the season was hampered by injury, recent reports indicate he's now fully recovered and ready for action. However, limited playing time has fuelled persistent speculation about his future at the club.
A source within Orlando Pirates confirmed the ongoing interest in Lepasa, telling Soccer Laduma: “It’s true these clubs that were interested in him haven’t really stopped inquiring about him. I think what was holding the whole thing back was his injury and now that he is fully recovered and Pirates want to give him a chance to play, as well the team’s interest in him, then he will also be looking at the next transfer window period which is in January. So, there is a possibility that the loan deal could happen in January – that I can tell you. Then at the end of the season they would look at a permanent move if all the parties are happy with the arrangements involving a permanent deal.”
This statement suggests a potential loan move for Lepasa in January, with a permanent transfer possibly following at the end of the season. The decision will likely depend on Lepasa's performance during the first half of the season and the overall needs of both Orlando Pirates and any interested clubs. The situation highlights the complexities of player transfers, with multiple factors influencing the final outcome.
Meanwhile, another player's future at Orlando Pirates has been decided. Thuso Moleleki, a 24-year-old attacking midfielder who joined the Buccaneers from Orbit College at the beginning of the season, is set for a loan move in January. Despite his talent, Moleleki is yet to make his debut for the club, a situation attributed to stiff competition for places in his position.
An insider, speaking to Soccer Laduma, explained the reasoning behind the loan decision: “You know he joined in the off season from Orbit College to boost the squad and now they want him to gain experience from another team where he can play more regularly. They have also seen that with the current squad it would take time before he can feature as the competition is very tough in his position. But with a loan move next season he can come back more experienced and fight for a place in the starting team at Orlando Pirates. That’s why his loan move is set for January if all goes well.”
The loan move is intended to provide Moleleki with valuable game time and experience, allowing him to develop his skills and potentially return to Orlando Pirates a more seasoned player. This strategic move demonstrates the club's commitment to player development and building a strong squad for the future. The decision reflects a proactive approach to managing player careers and optimising squad resources.
These developments come as Orlando Pirates enjoy a perfect start to the Betway Premiership season. Their unbeaten run raises the tantalising prospect of a league title win and the substantial financial rewards that would accompany such an achievement. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, a league title would undoubtedly bring a significant financial boost to the club.
