Pirates eyeing Sundowns goalkeeper

Orlando Pirates are believed to have set their eyes on acquiring the services of Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Reyaad Pieterse in order to strengthen their goalkeeping department.

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The Buccaneers are in the hunt for an experienced shot-stopper since they are uncertain about the future of Richard Ofori, whose contract is ending at the end of the season, while veteran goalkeeper Siyabonga Mpontshane will be let go.

A source tells Phakaaathi that the goalkeeping department is the main priority for the club with the overall squad looking balanced in every position.

Pieterse has not been able to make the number one spot his own at the Brazilians since his arrival at the club.

The Buccaneers’ management are said to be looking at going all out in order to get the services of Pieterse and they are willing to listen to his demands.

“There is a need for a goalkeeper at the club (Pirates),” said the source.

“At the moment Pieterse is the best candidate so far and they are ready to give him a good offer. The situation with Ofori is complicated, we are not sure if he (Ofori) is going to sign or not. But either way, they want to sign Pieterse from Sundowns. He will strengthen the goalkeeping department and that’s what the team needs, another good goalkeeper.”

“Sipho (Chaine) is doing well now, but what happens if he gets injured or both him and Ofori get injured? We will have to rely on Kopano Thuntsane and he is inexperienced.”

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Ongoing negotiations

The source emphasised that Pirates are keen on keeping Ofori at the club and negotiations for his contract extension are still continuing. The informant revealed that the club has tabled a good offer for the Ghanaian shot-stopper, who is believed to be looking for a huge salary.

However, should there be no agreement between Ofori and the club, it is said that he will be let go, which will put pressure on the management to ensure that they sign Pieterse.

The Buccaneers have been linked with several goalkeepers before, like Melusi Buthelezi of TS Galaxy, but nothing came out of the reported interest.