ORLANDO Pirates say they have had no formal enquiry from Egypt about the sale of Oupa Manyisa despite weekend reports from Al Ahly claiming they were in contact with the club.

"There has been no formal contact," said administration manager Floyd Mbele yesterday. "We are unaware of anyone from there speaking to anyone here."

Egyptian media reports said the African champions were seeking to buy Manyisa from the Buccaneers after the impressive performances he delivered in last year's African Champions League.

"We've always said that any move for an Orlando Pirates player has got to make sense for both the player and the club," Mbele said.

This is an indication of doubts about the ability of the Egyptian club to remain competitive in the international marketplace, even though it is reported they are seeking to strengthen their squad.

They are in a financial crisis and have had a new leadership imposed on them by the government as the security and civil situation in the north African country remain tenuous.

Ahly have lost one of their primary revenue sources as they are no longer allowed to have fans at their games because of fears of further unrest.

The 25-year-old Manyisa is still under contract at Bucs and would have a hefty price tag on his head.

"He is certainly the most underrated midfielder in the country and possibly the best," added Mbele.

"Egypt is not a destination for a player of Manyisa's quality, but that's just a personal view."

Mohlakeng-born Manyisa, who had unsuccessful trials in England and France, has won 15 caps for Bafana Bafana and represented the country at every level from under-17 upwards.

Ahly, who have already been knocked out of this year's Champions League, were quoted R20-million by Tunisian club CS Sfaxien when they inquired about international forward Fakhreddine Ben Youssef.