Tanzanian giants Yanga SC are continuing with their squad overhaul ahead of the new season, and reports suggest that the club has finalized plans to sign Deivi Miguel Vieira 'Gilberto', an Angolan international winger currently on loan at Petro Atletico from Orlando Pirates of South Africa.
This move follows the departure of attacking midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki, who has joined Wydad Athletic of Morocco in a deal reported to be a record transfer for Yanga.
Gilberto, currently shining once again at Petro Atletico, joined Orlando Pirates last season from the Angolan side. However, he spent only five months in South Africa before being loaned back to his former club in January this year after struggling to adapt to the South African football environment.
African football fans will remember Gilberto for his impressive performances during the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, where he scored a goal and helped Angola reach the quarterfinals of the tournament.
Before his move to Pirates, Gilberto had an outstanding spell with Petro Atletico, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists in 68 matches across various competitions, earning a reputation as one of the most dangerous wingers in Central Africa.
Despite signing Jonathan Ikangalombo, Yanga's technical bench believes there is still a need to strengthen the wing position. Gilberto is seen as the right fit to fill that gap with his quality, international experience, and ability to influence games.
If the deal goes through, Gilberto will become a key part of Yanga’s plan to remain competitive in both domestic and continental competitions, especially in the CAF Champions League next season.
