Orlando Pirates know exactly which positions they need to bolster up ahead of next season.
The Buccaneers are still mathematically in the title race, however it looks rather unlikely for Masandawana to slip up and lose out on yet another league title.
As things stand, Orlando Pirates are 12 points behind Mamelodi Sundowns however they do have three games in hand.
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One area which Jose Riveiro’s side have fallen short of Mamelodi Sundowns in is the striking department.
Lucas Ribeiro (13 goals), Iqram Rayners (nine goals) and Peter Shalulile (six goals) have been firing on all cylinders for Mamelodi Sundowns this season.
In contrast, Orlando Pirates strikers Tshegofatso Mabasa (five goals) and Evidence Makgopa (four goals) have fallen well short.
According to the latest reports however, Orlando Pirates will be given the first option to sign the prolific 26-year-old Brazilian striker Raphael Lopes in the next transfer window.
Lopes currently plies his trade in Malta for Hamrun Spartans after spending a number of years in the Brazilian lower leagues.
“According to insiders, Pirates are expected to be the first club approached regarding Lopes’ availability,” a Soccer Laduma report.
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Which striker would you like to see Pirates sign?
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