Orlando Pirates are poised to bolster their attacking ranks in the upcoming transfer window, with the signing of a new striker – potentially from abroad – topping their priority list. This follows their narrow 3-2 aggregate loss to Egypt’s Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League semi-final last Friday.
Emerging stars Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota provided the goals in the defeat, continuing their impressive form in recent weeks.
Nkota had earlier netted the crucial away goal in the quarter-final clash against MC Alger, with Mofokeng providing the assist – a partnership that has offered a silver lining in an otherwise frustrating attacking campaign.
Despite the heroics of the young duo, questions have mounted over the lack of consistent output from Pirates’ primary strikers.
Midfielder Kabelo Dlamini and defender Nkosinathi Sibisi have stepped up with decisive goals in the Nedbank Cup and Betway Premiership respectively, while forwards Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa have struggled to find the net regularly.
Even in their statement win over Mamelodi Sundowns, it was Mofokeng who stole the spotlight with a brace, further highlighting the need for a dependable centre-forward.
According to sources close to the club, the technical team is actively scouting internationally for a proven goal-scorer to lead the line next season.
Zambian striker Andrew Phiri, who recently underwent a trial with Pirates, has been strongly linked, while Ghana’s Kwame Opoku is also believed to be on the radar.
Brazilian frontman Raphael Lopes has emerged as a surprise option, with talks reportedly in the early stages.
“Yes, Pirates have done well with their youngsters stepping up to score and create goals,” a source told the media.
“But there’s a growing consensus that a proven goal-scorer is still needed. In some matches, the team has clearly struggled in the final third. The club’s search for a striker is expected to extend beyond South African borders.”
With the Buccaneers eager to build on their domestic cup momentum and strong continental showing, the recruitment of a clinical striker could prove pivotal in their quest for silverware next season
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