Orlando Pirates may have recently taken a closer look at Zambian striker Enock Sakala Jr. during this pre-season, but the Buccaneers are understood to be still actively assessing international options to boost their frontline ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Sakala, most recently on the books of Chippa United, joined the Pirates squad during their early pre-season sessions in Johannesburg, and early indications are that he made a positive impression.
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While the 23-year-old has not yet been officially unveiled by the club, he was spotted in training footage from the camp – fuelling speculation around a possible deal.
Despite showing promise, reports emerging from Zambia suggest that Pirates are yet to commit to signing the lanky forward, who made just six appearances and scored one goal for Chippa following his arrival in February.
“He seems to have impressed during his time with the squad, but Pirates are still keeping their options open,” a source from Zambia told the Siya crew. “They might be looking at other strikers internationally and will go with someone who can hit the ground running – a forward who can immediately help them score goals and compete for trophies,” the source said.
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The Soweto giants recently concluded their overseas camp, which included four friendly matches, and are now in the final stages of finalising the squad for the upcoming campaign. Their first official fixture is just days away – an MTN8 quarter-final clash against Polokwane City scheduled for next Saturday.
The competition for attacking places remains intense at Orlando. Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa have proven themselves as key figures in attack, while Boitumelo Radiopane and newly signed Yanela Mbuthuma are among the other options.
