Orlando Pirates winger Monnapule Saleng was a serious target for Egyptian giants Al Ahly, it has been confirmed.
Saleng has not featured for Pirates since December 7, when the Soweto club played Al Ahly to a 0–0 draw in the CAF Champions League at Orlando Stadium.
His extended omission – despite no reported injury – raised questions among supporters, with rumours circulating about a stalled move and potential salary disputes behind the scenes.
Now, former Al Ahly scout and Egyptian football legend Hany Ramzy has confirmed the Red Devils had tracked Saleng closely for more than a season.
“Saleng is a player we rated highly. He’s similar to Percy Tau in style, but quicker and very skillful,” Ramzy said on the Kora Talks Podcast. “We flagged him a season and a half ago. Coach Marcel Koller liked what he saw, but in the end, the deal was never finalised.”
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Despite the failed move, Saleng remains one of the most dynamic wide players in South African football. He reminded fans of his quality with a standout performance for Bafana Bafana in a CHAN qualifier in March – one of the few times he has featured competitively in 2024.
While Pirates have yet to officially comment on the situation, speculation continues to swirl around Saleng’s future. Unconfirmed reports have even linked the 26-year-old to a potential switch to rivals Kaizer Chiefs – a move that would undoubtedly send shockwaves through the local football scene.
With the off-season transfer window approaching, Saleng’s next move could be one of the major talking points in South African football.
Saleng enjoyed a strong start to the current season, contributing five goals in 13 appearances, including a memorable strike in the MTN8 final.
Earlier this year, P Management Sports released a statement amid the swirling speculation and reiterated that the situation is of a “sensitive nature” and will not be discussed further in public.
They noted that the issue at hand is ultimately a matter of “employer-employee relationship,” which requires internal resolution.
“We are aware of the ongoing speculation surrounding our client, Monnapule Saleng. While we have refrained from making public comments due to the sensitive and confidential nature of the matter, our silence should not be misconstrued as an endorsement of the narrative being presented against him,” reads the statement by P Management Sports.
“This matter involves significant issues at the core of the employer-employee relationship that require resolution. Our client remains committed to addressing these matters through the appropriate legal and professional channels.
“Given the confidentiality of the matter, we will not be engaging in further public discussions. Our priority remains to act in our client’s interests while advocating for a fair and amicable resolution. We trust that the proper processes will lead to an outcome that serves the best interests of all parties involved.”