Orlando Pirates rejected a R9-million bid for striker Kwame Peprah but with the player seeking an exit, a potential loan deal could now be on the cards this week.
The 21-year-old striker joined Pirates in August 2021 in a deal worth around R2.3-million and came highly rated after an impressive season with King Faisal in the Ghana Premier League.
His 12 goals and 10 assists in 32 league outings made him one of the most sought-after talents but Pirates won the race for his services and he became a mainstay in their starting eleven.
In the 38 games played across all competitions, the return of nine goals was solid but unspectacular, but it managed to attract widespread interest in his services.
There was first interest in Greece, Egypt, Sweden and Norway but the interest cooled down due to the asking price for the transfer and fee for a potential loan with an option to buy.
At the time of the interest, Peprah told iDiski Times that he’s contracted to Orlando Pirates and it’s ‘not my place to talk about transfer business’.
“I leave that stuff to my management. But whatever happens, I always believe in my abilities and I back myself to succeed in any environment,” he told iDiski Times in July. “Coming here to such a big club as Pirates was a challenge but one that I felt ready and confident for, so whatever the future holds, I will be ready.”
However, this website understands that in August; Libyan giants Al Ahli came forth with a transfer bid of R9-million which was also rejected while Peprah missed the chance to triple his current wage packet.
Pirates hold the cards with a contract that ends in 2024, as well as a two-year option, but has fallen down the pecking order behind Bienvenu Eva Nga, Zakhele Lepasa and possibly Evidence Makgopa too, the player has become disillusioned by their reluctance to allow him to leave.
It’s now been reported by SABC Sport that Pirates are closing in on luring Ndumiso Mabena back to the club eight years after his initial exit – with the 35-year-old able to occupy the 10 role and upfront, it could pave the way for Peprah to get the move for regular first-team football on loan before the window shuts on Thursday.
There’s already been one informal enquiry from the domestic rival in the DStv Premiership but it’s unclear whether their interest will be entertained by the Buccaneers at present.
