Orlando Pirates appear unlikely to pursue a deal for Ivorian defender
Ismael Toure during the January transfer window, despite the player’s
availability and past links to the club.
Now 27 and a free agent, Toure—who previously impressed at Stellenbosch
FC—is understood to be open to a return to the DStv Premiership. However,
the Buccaneers are not currently prioritising a move for the centre-back,
even with the expected departure of Mbekezeli Mbokazi to MLS side Chicago
Fire after the Africa Cup of Nations.
A key factor is the timely return of defenders Olisa Ndah and Thabiso Sesane
from long-term injuries. The pair recently featured in Pirates’ Carling Cup
victory, offering coach Abdeslam Ouaddou a welcome boost in defensive
options.
Ouaddou hinted that internal solutions may be favoured over new signings. “I
have to work with what I have, trust the players, work with them to improve
them,” he said after the final. While acknowledging a preference for a
left-footed centre-back for balance, the coach emphasised working with his
current squad.
With Ndah and Sesane back in contention, and new signing Lebone Seema
settling in, Pirates’ central defence looks increasingly stocked. Club
captain Nkosinathi Sibisi remains involved despite being on AFCON duty,
while Tapelo Xoki continues his recovery from a car accident earlier this
season.
Given the returning personnel and the focus on continuity, a January move
for Toure seems an increasingly distant prospect for the Soweto giants.
