Gavin Hunt Addresses Zakhele Lepasa Transfer Rumors to SuperSport United

SuperSport United head coach Gavin Hunt has responded to rumors linking Orlando Pirates striker Zakhele Lepasa to his club for the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season.

Lepasa, who had a strong start last season with 10 goals, has fallen out of favor at Pirates, struggling to secure a spot in the starting lineup under coach Jose Riveiro.

Riveiro has preferred other strikers like Evidence Makgopa and Tshegofatso Mabasa, with Mabasa returning from a loan at Moroka Swallows and making an immediate impact.

Mabasa’s impressive performances, including key goals that helped Pirates win the 2024 Nedbank Cup and secure a second-place league finish, have further limited Lepasa’s chances.

As the transfer window draws to a close, Hunt has admitted that SuperSport United is actively searching for a striker, especially after their top scorer Bradley Grobler suffered a long-term injury, and Etiosa Ighodaro returned to Mamelodi Sundowns before moving to AmaZulu FC on loan.

Hunt acknowledged the rumors of Lepasa joining SuperSport but noted that no deal has been confirmed.

With SuperSport needing to replace the 20 goals Grobler and Ighodaro provided last season, Hunt emphasized the urgency of signing a striker, also pointing out the delays caused by work permit issues.

Meanwhile, Lepasa, who had a previous loan stint with SuperSport in the 2022/23 season, has yet to feature for Orlando Pirates in their five games this season, including the CAF Champions League and MTN8.