Monnapule Saleng targeted by Al Ahly confirmation: Orlando Pirates star drew transfer interest
NOTABLE ABSENTEE Over six months since he last played for the Soweto Giants, it’s finally been confirmed that Al Ahly were in fact interested in signing out-of-favour Orlando Pirates forward Monnapule Saleng. Picture: Phill Magakoe / AFP
Image: Phill Magakoe / AFP
Over six months later, it’s finally been confirmed that Al Ahly did in fact want to sign out-of-favour Orlando Pirates player Monnapule Saleng.
Saleng has not featured for Pirates since December 7, when they hosted Al Ahly in a CAF Champions League match at Orlando Stadium, which ended in a goalless draw.
His absence was believed to be over a salary dispute and a failed transfer to Al Ahly, although this was never confirmed by Pirates. As one of the best wingers in the country and not known to be nursing any kind of injury, his absence was keenly felt by Pirates supporters this past season.
Saleng, however, was selected for Bafana Bafana in their African Nations Championship (Chan) qualifier in Bloemfontein in early March and, by all accounts, delivered a top performance.
Saleng: The Star Catching the Eye of Al Ahly and Chiefs
Former Al Ahly scout Hany Ramzy confirmed that Saleng had been on the Egyptian club’s radar for some time.
“There are names I think Al Ahly should sign. A player in South Africa, similar to Percy Tau in his style of play, but faster and with great skills. His name is Saleng, he plays for Orlando Pirates,” Ramzy told Kora Talks Podcast.
“This nomination was made a season and a half ago. We thought he was an excellent player, and Marcel Koller followed him and expressed his admiration, but no decision was made regarding him either. The deal was not completed.”
There have also been unsubstantiated rumours emerging that Saleng might be making a move to Chiefs.