Pirates eyeing Congolese finisher to beef up strikeforce

Word doing the rounds in South African media is that Orlando Pirates are eyeing a Congolese finisher, Guy Mbenza as they look to beef up their strikeforce.

Pirates are heavily linked with the Congolese talented finisher, Mbenza who has played his football in several countries as they aim to have more options in their strikeforce.

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The latest information surrounding player arrivals at Mayfair has it that the Congolese international, Mbenza is close to signing on the dotted line with Pirates to bolster their strikeforce.

PIRATES EYEING CONGOLESE FINISHER

Various football publications report that coach Jose Riveiro decided not to pursue ex-Marumo Gallants star Ranga Chivaviro as they have found a suitable finisher in Mbenza.

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Chivaviro has since been unveiled by Kaizer Chiefs despite DStv Premiership rivals, Richards Bay claiming the player belongs to them.

The Buccaneers, as Pirates are also referred to, have reached an agreement to sign and bring Mbenza to the Premiership yet the details remain sketchy at the moment.

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“Pirates were offered a younger option in Mbenza. And while I am not sure if he has signed yet, Pirates have tabled an offer for him,” says a source close to Phakaaathi.

“He should be in the country soon to conclude the deal. If he signs, he will link up with his new teammates.

“And then the coaches will decide who they keep and loan out once they have seen all their strikers together.”

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The 23-year-old finisher, Mbenza has also plied his trade in countries such as his home Congo, Tunisia, Belgium, and Saudi Arabia and might make his debut in Mzansi next season.

BUCCANEERS IN TALKS WITH EX- SUNDOWNS STAR KAPINGA

Having seen his contract not renewed by the Chloorkop-based Sundowns last week, Pirates seem ready to pounce on midfielder Lesedi Kapinga.

The South African published that the reigning MTN8 and Nedbank Cup title holders are close to sealing a deal with the former Black Leopards player, Kapinga.

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Kapinga was starved of regular game time under coach Rulani Mokwena last season and might find a new football home with the Soweto giants.

Kapinga’s exit at Sundowns was influenced by former Stellenbosch FC midfielder Junior Mendieta’s arrival who was unveiled on Monday.

With Riveiro and his technical preparing for a challenging season as they will also play in the CAF Champions League, the interest in Mbenza does not come as a surprise.