Pirates Show An Interest In Clifford Amidst Squad Changes

Orlando Pirates have expressed interest in Jaisen Clifford, and the Soweto Giants have even sent a letter to assess him. Pirates are reportedly seeking cover for both left and right-wing positions and are impressed by Clifford’s profile.

The Soweto Giants are leaving no stone unturned, as there are reports that Relebohile Mofokeng might leave Pirates after an outstanding season.

If Pirates sign Clifford, they’ll acquire him for free, as his contract at Etar Veliko Tarnovo is expiring at the end of the season and he does not intend to renew.

Mpumalanga-born Clifford is a talented footballer who can play on both flanks. He might be a direct replacement for Monnapule Saleng, who was allegedly sidelined last season after signing a pre-contract elsewhere, reportedly infuriating Pirates’ management.

Saleng is now set to leave the club. This situation is why Pirates have seized the opportunity to secure Clifford, whose reputation has grown considerably in recent months, attracting attention from top European clubs.

A product of SuperSport United’s youth academy, Clifford has enjoyed a diverse career, playing in Malta, Lithuania, and Armenia. His impressive performance in Lithuania helped FC Stumbras win the Lithuanian Cup in 2017—their first and only title.

This victory qualified them for the 2018-2019 UEFA Europa League qualifying rounds, where they won a tie. During Stumbras’s Lithuanian Cup victory, he played alongside former Kaizer Chiefs and Bidvest Wits winger Kgaogelo Sekgota.

In 2021, Clifford had a stint at Cape Town All Stars before joining Van in Armenia, where he played for a couple of seasons before signing with Etar Veliko Tarnovo. If everything goes according to plan, Clifford will join Pirates for their pre-season camp in Marbella, Spain, where they will face teams like England’s Bolton Wanderers. This will be the third consecutive time that Pirates have held their pre-season in Spain.