Pirates Face January Dilemma Over Saleng as Transfer Window Heats Up

As the January transfer window gathers momentum, Orlando Pirates find themselves at the centre of growing debate over the future of winger Monnapule Saleng, whose resurgence away from the club has reignited conversations among supporters and pundits alike.

Saleng is currently on loan at Orbit College until June, but with the mid-season window now open, questions are being asked about whether the Buccaneers should consider recalling the 28-year-old before the end of his temporary spell. For Pirates fans, the discussion goes beyond one player and speaks to a bigger picture: who stays, who returns, and who may quietly move on as the club sharpens its squad for the decisive phase of the season.

The Buccaneers have already shown intent in the market. Earlier this week, Pirates confirmed the signing of New Zealand international Andre de Jong from Stellenbosch FC, a move that adds experience and depth to their attacking options. The acquisition underlines a clear message — Pirates are not standing still, despite their strong position on the pitch.

That context makes the Saleng situation particularly interesting.

Away from Mayfair, the winger has steadily rebuilt his confidence at Orbit College. In the Betway Premiership, he has contributed two goals and three assists, but it is his overall sharpness that has stood out. Saleng appears more direct, more decisive, and noticeably freer in his play compared to earlier in the campaign.

His improved form has not gone unnoticed beyond South Africa’s borders. Saleng has recently been linked with a potential move to Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca, with reports suggesting the North African club made contact with Orlando Pirates to enquire about his availability. While no official approach has been confirmed, the interest alone highlights how his stock has risen during his loan spell.

Saleng’s move to Orbit College followed off-field issues that curtailed his chances at Pirates, but this season has given him a platform to remind observers of the quality he possesses. Naturally, that revival has fuelled debate among the Buccaneers’ faithful, especially now that the transfer window provides room for manoeuvre.

However, recalling Saleng is not a straightforward decision.

Under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, Pirates are enjoying an exceptional run. The team has dominated both league and cup competitions, and the squad appears settled, balanced, and competitive in every position. Introducing a returning loanee mid-season raises a key question: where would Saleng fit in a side that is already delivering consistently?

Some supporters argue that his creativity and attacking flair could add another layer to an already dangerous team. Others caution that disrupting a winning formula at this stage of the season could prove risky, particularly with competition for places at its fiercest.

Saleng is also not the only loanee whose future is under quiet review.

Deivi Miguel Vieira (Image: Pedro de Luanda)

Angolan winger Deivi Miguel Vieira, better known as Gilberto, remains on loan at Petro de Luanda after struggling to secure a regular starting role under former Pirates coach José Riveiro. Gilberto made 12 appearances across all competitions for the Buccaneers before his departure, but reports indicate that his loan extension at Petro de Luanda expired at the end of December. Pirates have so far remained silent on his current status.

With the transfer window open, Orlando Pirates are weighing immediate needs against long-term planning. They have already strengthened with the arrival of Andre de Jong, they are performing strongly on the field, and they face important decisions regarding players out on loan — decisions that could influence not only the remainder of this season, but the next one too.

Whether Pirates choose to recall Saleng while his confidence is high, wait until the end of the campaign, or focus solely on fine-tuning a squad that is already delivering results remains to be seen. What is certain is that the Buccaneers’ January business will be closely watched as the season enters its most critical phase.