Monnapule Saleng Eyes Loan Move as Orbit College Expresses Interest Amid Pirates Uncertainty

The future of Orlando Pirates winger Monnapule Saleng remains clouded in uncertainty, but new developments suggest the 27-year-old could soon find a lifeline in the form of a local loan move. Saleng, once considered one of the Buccaneers’ most electrifying attackers, has not featured for the club since early December, despite being reportedly injury-free and match-fit.

Insiders close to the player now indicate that Saleng’s camp is pushing for a move to revive his career — even if it means staying within South African football. Talks of a strained relationship with club management have persisted, believed to revolve around unresolved contractual and salary-related issues. Although no official communication has come from Pirates, the winger’s extended absence has only fuelled speculation.

While there has been growing talk of a potential transfer to Egyptian giants Al Ahly — especially as former Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is tipped to take over at the North African powerhouse — that move has yet to materialise. Saleng’s representatives reportedly explored the Al Ahly option in January, but negotiations stalled before anything concrete could be agreed upon.

In the meantime, a promising domestic alternative has emerged in the form of Orbit College FC. The Motsepe Foundation Championship side has qualified for the promotion playoffs and could soon be playing in the Betway Premiership. According to sources close to the situation, Orbit would be eager to reunite Saleng with mentor Pogiso Makhoye, under whom he launched his professional journey before progressing to Free State Stars and ultimately Pirates.

“Orbit would be keen to have him under his mentor Pogiso Makhoye if they get promotion to the Betway Premiership,” one source confirmed. “It’s where Saleng started his journey, and there’s real history and familiarity there.”

Orbit College already enjoy a working relationship with Orlando Pirates, currently hosting three of their players — Gomolemo Khoto, Siyabulela Mabele, and Ndumiso Ngiba — on loan. Should the club gain promotion, they are expected to pursue a continuation of that partnership, with Saleng likely to be a high-priority target.

Saleng’s last appearance for the Buccaneers came on December 7, 2024, during their CAF Champions League clash with Al Ahly — a match that ended in a goalless draw. Despite being sidelined at club level since then, Saleng made a positive impression in national colours during Bafana Bafana’s CHAN qualifier against Mozambique in March.

Sources have consistently denied that Saleng’s exclusion is related to a fallout with coach Riveiro, instead attributing it to unresolved contractual disputes. However, should Riveiro’s appointment at Al Ahly be confirmed, it could breathe new life into transfer talks between the Egyptian giants and Saleng’s camp.

Until then, a domestic loan appears to be the most viable option. For Saleng, a return to regular football — potentially with a club that played a crucial role in his rise — may be the strategic reset his career needs. And if Orbit College secure their spot in the top flight, their interest in reuniting with the talented winger could quickly become reality.