Orlando Pirates are keeping a close eye on rising star Philasande Manqele, who has been making a name for himself with his performances for Richards Bay FC.
The young goalkeeper caught the attention of many in the fraternity with his superb performance against the Soweto giants in the Carling Knockout quarterfinals, saving one of the spot kicks during the penalty shootout, having also managed to keep a clean sheet in regulation time.
The 20-year-old, who has had a hectic schedule these past few weeks due to juggling between football and writing matric examinations, went on to make one more appearance in the competition as the Natal Rich Boyz lost in the semi-finals to Stellenbosch FC last weekend.
According to sources, Manqele's name has made it into the wish-list of Pirates, who will be keen to reshuffle their goalkeeping department at the end of the season. Having brought in Melusi Buthelezi from TS Galaxy and Sipho Chaine from Chippa United for the current campaign, the club is said to be planning to reinforce with a younger keeper to boost their ranks… and Manqele is the target.
Bucs have Siyabonga Mpontshane and Richard Ofori facing an uncertain future due to lack of regular game-time. Both players' contracts are due to expire in June next year, although Pirates have an option on Ofori to have his deal extended by one more year after his last extension in July.
"Pirates have identified young Manqele from Richards Bay as the next target for their goalkeeping department. He is just 20 and is seen as one for the future. Pirates are taking the direction of cutting average age in the squad and goalkeeping is one of the areas the club is focusing on in doing that," revealed a source.
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