Breaking: Monnapule Saleng edges closer to Orlando Pirates exit

It’s understood talks are ongoing between the Soweto giants and newly promoted outfit Orbit College to help revive the players’ career. 

Saleng only managed five appearances during the 2024/25 campaign, with his last coming against Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League group stages in December leading to speculation he’d only made the team because Pirates were putting him on the shop window for the North African giants. 

Reports on Saleng possibly joining Ahly were never substantiated and Pirates are still yet to address rumours over why the player was frozen out. 

According to information gathered through sources in Bloemhof, where Saleng hails from in the North West, a reunion with his former employers is on the cards. 

Orbit College launched Saleng before he went on to sign for Free State Stars in the lower division and go on to become a household name.   

Pirates poached the winger from Stars four years ago in what seemed a match made in heaven after he’d finished the season as the club’s top goal scorer before Ea Lla Koto sold their professional status. 

READ: Breaking: Cape Town City lose another key player

To help him find his feet again, SABC Sport has been informed that Saleng is edging closer to a loan spell at Orbit College, who were promoted to the Premier Soccer League topflight last month. 

Under the guidance of coach Pogiso Makhoye, the North West outfit finished top of the round-robin league ahead of Cape Town City and Casric Stars to be the second team from the National First Division to be promoted. 

Durban City won the Motsepe Foundation Championship and automatically secured their status in the elite division. 

It remains to be seen how quickly Pirates can tie up the deal to send Saleng on loan and end speculation over his future. 

Saleng previously spent a season on loan at Moroka Swallows before being recalled to be a key player in Jose Riveiro’s first year at the club.