Ex-Pirates Star Considered ‘Essential Element’ In French Topflight

Former Orlando Pirates star Marshall Munetsi has reportedly been identified as an “essential element” of Paris FC's Ligue 1 ambitions next season after making a promising start since his arrival in France.

Les Parisiens finished 11th with 44 points, just one point behind Lorient in 10th and Toulouse in ninth.

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According to Foot Sur 7, the club considers it to be a respectable finish, but have already set a clear objective for next season: breaking into the top 10.

Munetsi is understood to be a key part of that objective, with the club reportedly keen to retain him alongside Luca Koleosho.

It has been suggested that Les Bleus are not looking to overhaul the squad entirely, but rather build on an already solid foundation.

The Zimbabwean joined the French side in January this year on a six-month loan deal from Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers, with the agreement set to expire at the end of June.

It is understood that the original deal between the two clubs did not include either an option or an obligation to buy.

However, it has been suggested that The Parisians are now eager to make the move permanent, although reported interest from Nottingham Forest has complicated matters, according to OneFootball.

Reports suggest Paris FC believe Wolves deliberately allowed news of talks with Nottingham Forest to emerge in an attempt to accelerate negotiations, while the French club's efforts to secure Munetsi on a permanent deal are still believed to be in the early stages.

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It has further been claimed that Wolves are hoping to recover as much as possible of the reported £16 million (around R350 million) they spent to sign Munetsi.

For the Zimbabwean midfielder, the focus will now be on gaining clarity over his future after an impressive six-month stint in Paris, where he registered four goals and two assists in 16 appearances across all competitions.