Celtic keen to sign Pelembe from Bucs

Bloemfontein Celtic have thrown Helder Pelembe a lifeline.

The forgotten Orlando Pirates striker, who arrived in SA less than two years ago as a highly rated goal-poacher and was used sparingly by then coach Roger de Sa, began training with Celtic yesterday with the hope of earning a contract.

Phunya SeleSele confirmed through their managing director, Rali Ramabodu, that negotiations with the Buccaneers to sign Pelembe along with defender Mthokosizi Dube were underway.

Pelembe's current deal with Bucs expires at the end of the 2015-2016 season which starts next month.

"Both players are with the club to be monitored by our technical team because of our ongoing negotiations with their club. We have been given permission [by Pirates] to invite them to our training camp [in Johannesburg]," said Ramabodu.

Pelembe, 27, only made two Premier League starts for Pirates last season and desperately needs the move.

The Mozambique forward enjoyed a bit more game time two seasons ago, mostly under De Sa and then under Vladimir Vermezovic, who also quit last December.

Dube was not registered by the club.

"They will add value when eventually signed because of their phenomenal work rate. We must commend Pirates for the professional manner in which they are dealing with our request," Ramabodu said.

"We are confident to clinch the deal before the season starts."

Celtic have been one of the busiest sides during the transfer market and Pelembe's arrival will further strengthen their already deadly attack.

Shortly after the end of the 2014-2015 season, in which Celtic finished seventh on the log, the club announced they had signed University of Pretoria striker Geofrey Massa.

And early last month, another striker in Vuyisile Wana and midfielder Lantshene Phalane joined Bloemfontein Celtic from the relegated Moroka Swallows.