Relebohile Mofokeng’s Orlando Pirates Season Ends with Transfer Buzz Set to Ignite Again

Relebohile Mofokeng’s second full season in the Orlando Pirates first team is drawing to a close, and once again, transfer speculation is set to dominate headlines. With a stellar campaign under his belt, the 20-year-old’s name is expected to circulate widely during the upcoming transfer window, particularly among clubs seeking the next breakout African star.

Mofokeng has delivered an impressive return in the 2024/25 season, ending with double digits in both goals and assists. His tally of 12 goals and 14 assists puts him in elite company, rivalling standout performers such as Mamelodi Sundowns’ Lucas Ribeiro Costa in discussions around the Player of the Season.

As the Soweto giants prepare for the off-season following their final fixture on May 28, internal conversations at Orlando Pirates are expected to intensify around Mofokeng’s future. The young playmaker has already flirted with European football, having undergone trials in the United Kingdom, and few doubt that his long-term destiny lies abroad.

However, making that leap to Europe involves more than just potential—it requires meeting financial demands that reflect his market value. According to sources familiar with international player movement, Pirates have set an approximate base price of R40 million for Mofokeng, with possible add-ons. While there’s speculation the figure could rise as high as R75 million, that scenario appears unlikely unless he is already based in Europe.

Despite being one of the brightest young talents in African football, Mofokeng still faces the challenge of transitioning from the South African Premier Division to European football. Industry experts suggest that his development would be best nurtured at mid-level European clubs in leagues such as Belgium, Portugal, or France—nations known for integrating African talent and offering a pathway to the top five leagues.

“There’s no question about the boy’s talent,” said one international scout. “But what’s important is the process. If he moves too soon or to the wrong environment, it could delay his growth. The potential for him to become a player worth over R500 million is real, but he needs the right stepping stone.”

Over the past year, Pirates have reportedly been inundated with inquiries about Mofokeng. Still, the club has remained firm in its valuation. This deliberate stance indicates that while they are open to negotiations, any move will be on their terms—and in the best interest of both the player and the institution.

As fans snap up Orlando Pirates merchandise in anticipation of a strong finish and possible off-season shakeups, Mofokeng’s situation remains one of the biggest talking points. Whether he stays for another season or heads abroad, one thing is clear: the next chapter in his promising career is just beginning.