Orlando Pirates have confirmed that Angolan international Gilberto will be loaned to Petro de Luanda for the remainder of the season.

Gilberto, who joined Pirates during the off-season, was originally signed from the Angolan side with much fan frenzy.

The 23-year-old, who helped his country reach the quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, has struggled to secure a regular starting spot at Pirates. He has made 12 appearances across all competitions.

“Orlando Pirates has reached an agreement for the loan transfer of Angolan international Gilberto to Petro de Luanda for the remainder of the season,” the club announced in a statement. “The move sees Gilberto return to his hometown club, pending the successful completion of a medical.”

Gilberto’s last appearance for Pirates came as a substitute in their 2-1 victory over Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League last weekend.

Competition for places in the Pirates attack has been fierce, with players like Monnapule Saleng, Mohau Nkota, and Relebohile Mofokeng currently ahead of Gilberto in the pecking order under coach Jose Riveiro.