Orlando Pirates, aware of Jose Riveiro’s departure, could see several stars follow suit as giants of the game begin snooping in Mayfair.
Starboy Relebohile Mofokeng is arguably the Soweto giants’most sought-after player as the 20-year-old continues to play beyond his years – coming up clutch across all competitions, from his brace against league-leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to the go-ahead goal in the MTN8 final.
His nonchalant style has clubs lining up across the continent (and beyond). Egyptian giants Zamalek had their R25.8 million bid rejected earlier in the year, insinuating Orlando Pirates’ asking price to be north of R30 million.
Europe comes calling
To many, European soccer is the pinnacle; it’s where players from Africa to Australia strive to play, so it’s often hard to ignore when a club comes calling.
Championship side Sunderland, idling in playoff contention, is monitoring Orlando Pirates duo Tshegofatso Mabasa and Thalente Mbatha while reigning PSL Player of the Year Patrick Maswanganyi is said to be pushing for a return to the continent, where he spent many years at youth level.
“It’s the same club [Sunderland] interested in another Pirates player, Thalente Mbatha. It’s believed that when the scouts came to look at Mbatha they were also happy with Mabasa, and they had to assess him further in other games and apparently they were happy and they have enquired about him. So, Sunderland are the club interested in Tshegofatso Mabasa,” SoccerLaduma concluded.
The Mackem’s could well make a return to the English Premier League, and if they do, it will certainly pique Mabasa and Mbatha’s interest.
Who should Pirates sign in the offseason?
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