PREMIER Soccer League runners up Orlando Pirates will launch a strong challenge for the Absa Premiership and African Champions League next season.

PREMIER Soccer League runners up Orlando Pirates will launch a strong challenge for the Absa Premiership and African Champions League next season.

Bucs made their first signing in the off-season when they captured talented Pretoria University midfielder Phenyo Mongala.

The budding Botswana star is one of five key signings the Buccaneers will make before the start of the season in August.

Mongala was one of the players who impressed a number of PSL clubs and who helped AmaTuks reach the final of the Nedbank Cup.

Said Bucs spokesperson Mickey Modisane: "Mongala is the only player we have signed at present."

Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza is in England where he watched Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley in London and is only expected back in Johannesburg later this week. He is expected to unveil new signings later this month.

Modisane said Bucs were looking to sign a back-up goalkeeper for Moeneeb Josephs who is with Bafana Bafana for this month's Confederations Cup.

He said Bucs were also keen to sign a top class defender, a midfielder and striker to challenge for the league title and compete in Africa. - Sapa