This week, former Orlando Pirates star Steve ‘Chippa’ Lekoelea opens up about Oupa Manyisa’s asking price and also say why Pirates should give Lucky Lekgwathi a new contract.

On Manyisa’s asking price
I must say, I was shocked to hear the asking price which is said to be wanted by Pirates for the services of Oupa Manyisa. If it’s true that they are asking for this amount then I honestly think that’s their way of saying that Manyisa is not for sale. Ace is a good player, but the asking price is too much, hence I believe that this is a way to block any team that is interested in him. But again, if the teams are really interested in him then they must be prepared to pay for him.

On Lekgwathi’s contract situation
I heard that Lekgwathi’s contract is coming to end. In my opinion, I think that Pirates should give Lekgwathi a new one-year contract. I have seen him at training and when he played last season, Lekgwathi is still fit and he has what it takes to play in the PSL. Over the years he has been a dedicated servant of the club and if he still wants to play, then he must be given another contract. Having said that, I think the Chairman (Irvin Khoza) is aware of Lekgwathi’s situation and he will take the right decision.

On Pirates’ targets
Pirates have been linked with several players during the transfer period, but so far the club has only confirmed Issa Sarr as our signing. I must say though that I’m concerned about some of the players that are linked with Bucs, because I don’t think that some of them will make it at Pirates. It takes a special player to play for Pirates. Look at Manti Moholo - he was a good player at Free State Stars, but he couldn’t make the grade at Bucs.