Why Relebohile Mofokeng will leave Orlando Pirates this winter

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Orlando Pirates were saved on several occasions by the mesmerising skills of youngster Relebohile Mofokeng. The 20-year-old amassed 27 goal contributions during the recently concluded 2024/25 season, including eight in thirteen CAF Champions League appearances.

The boy from Sharpeville has the world at his feet – and boy, do they want him.

Several clubs have inquired, including Barcelona FC and Glasgow Rangers, and most recently, Al Ahly and Zamalek FC, who had their R25.8 million mid-season bid rejected during the summer window.

The Buccaneers have done all they can to keep hold of their starboy, but everyone has a price (especially in soccer), and it appears Orlando Pirates’ is around R31.2 million, plus a selling-on percentage, which has been known to materialise lucrative returns.

“Orlando Pirates [are] demanding about 1.5 million euros (approx. R31.2 million) for the 20-year-old talent, as well as a percentage of any future sale,” SoccerLaduma confirmed.

The fact that Orlando Pirates have placed a valuation on Mofokeng suggests that they’re willing to listen to offers, increasing the likelihood of an offseason exit.

Father and Broos agree

Late last year Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos predicted that last season would be Mofokeng’s last with Orlando Pirates, a belief that the player’s father hopes will become reality.

“My biggest wish is to see Rele overseas in 2025/2026. I’m praying every day. I don’t want to see him in the Betway Premiership again this season. I know God will answer my prayers,” Sechaba said.

[Whether it’s in] Spain, England, Netherlands, France, Denmark, Switzerland — Rele can play. I believe that with all my heart. Take him to Barcelona? He can play. PSG? He can play. Any country. I’ll be happy — but not Saudi Arabia,” say’s the Orlando Pirates’ player’s father.

“Not yet. He’s still young. He needs to compete in UEFA competitions. If he goes to Saudi now, he won’t experience that. Yes, he’d be rich — but happiness is more important. You can have all the money in the world, but if you’re not happy, it’s worthless.”