Orlando Pirates could potentially lose star player Maswanganyi
Orlando Pirates could potentially lose star player Patrick Maswanganyi in the next transfer window.
The Bucs supporters might have to brace themselves for a massive blow. Maswanganyi, the club's talisman and reigning PSL Player of the Year, looks set to make a sensational return to Europe.
Maswanganyi spent much of his youth career in Portugal, developing his talent with UD Oliveirense and Académica de Coimbra. Now, he wants to finish what he started, by conquering European football in his prime.
Farouk Khan, Maswanganyi's former mentor at Stars of Africa, ignited transfer rumors earlier this season when he boldly stated:
'He [Maswanganyi] is ready for Europe. Even as a player, he really wants to play there. You know if Orlando Pirates can allow him to go then it won't benefit only Pirates from the sale but also the player himself and the country.'
Khan believes the playmaker missed his earlier chance due to impatience but insists the window is still wide open.
'He could have stayed longer in Portugal… But nothing is lost. He can still go now and make it big.'
Reports suggest that UD Oliveirense—Maswanganyi's former club—has already entered advanced talks with Orlando Pirates. A source close to the deal revealed in January:
'It's no longer just about an inquiry, it's about negotiations now… They really want him back in Portugal.'
The Portuguese outfit reportedly values the 27-year-old at R40 million, and they're pushing hard to bring him back. The source added.
'The only issue that is there now is the R40 million that the club has put on Maswanganyi's head… Since they are believed to have opened up negotiations then it will all depend on their offer that they table to Pirates.'
Fueling exit rumours even further, Maswanganyi, affectionately known as 'Tito', has not featured in Orlando Pirates' last two starting eleven line-ups. He watched from the bench as the Buccaneers suffered back-to-back defeats against Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League and Sekhukhune United in the league.
Frustrated fans and pundits alike are raising eyebrows. One source exclaimed.
'Why is Tito not starting? Is he still injured? No. Crucial games against Pyramids and Sekhukhune United, which they both lost. Something is going on there… You leaving your best players on the bench, why?'
Maswanganyi's future now hangs in the balance. Will Orlando Pirates let him chase his European dream, or will they demand more than Oliveirense can afford? One thing is clear, the football world is watching, and Tito's next move could shake up Pirates future plans.
Stay tuned with The South African as Orlando Pirates could potentially lose star player Patrick Maswanganyi.
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