Al Ahly Set to Intensify Pursuit of Orlando Pirates Starlet Mbekezeli Mbokazi

Egyptian giants Al Ahly are reportedly preparing to accelerate their pursuit of Orlando Pirates’ highly-rated young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, with sources suggesting he is a top transfer target for the club’s incoming coach, Jose Riveiro.

Mbokazi, who has impressed in the Pirates’ defensive ranks at just 19 years old, is now believed to be at the centre of Al Ahly’s recruitment plans ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. According to early reports from Egypt, Riveiro, who previously worked with Mbokazi at Pirates, has recommended the South African talent as his first signing for the Red Devils.

Egyptian publication Sport El Watan quoted journalist Muhib Abdul Hadi stating that Riveiro has specifically asked Al Ahly’s board to pursue the young defender, citing his familiarity with Mbokazi’s skillset and potential.

“Al-Ahly club officials have already begun exploring the possibility of signing South African defender Mbekezile Mbokazi during the upcoming summer transfer window, ahead of the Club World Cup, with the player being registered under the exceptional registration period that FIFA announced would open starting next June,” said Hadi.

The Al Ahly management is believed to have responded positively to Riveiro’s request, with concrete planning reportedly underway to secure the Pirates defender before the new season kicks off.

Further reports from Al-Nahar have added that Al Ahly are targeting reinforcements at the back, particularly at centre-back and left-back, in preparation for the Club World Cup and the new Egyptian Premier League season. Veteran journalist Ahmed Shobeir noted that two defensive signings are close to being finalised.

“Al-Ahly was on its way to completing two deals, and this is 100% certain,” Shobeir said. “The first was for a defender because Al-Ahly was already satisfied with the defensive and attacking midfield players. The second deal was for a left-back, and they will be announced after the end of the season.”

While Shobeir did not name the players involved, speculation is mounting that Mbokazi could be one of the defensive signings lined up. His profile fits Al Ahly’s strategy of blending promising youth with international pedigree, and his familiarity with Riveiro adds weight to the potential move.

Mbokazi’s development at Orlando Pirates has seen him emerge as one of the brightest defensive prospects in South African football. Calm under pressure, tactically disciplined, and physically robust, he has shown maturity beyond his years—qualities that make him a natural fit for a club of Al Ahly’s stature.

Should the transfer materialise, it would mark a significant step in Mbokazi’s career and reinforce the growing trend of top South African talents attracting interest from North African heavyweights. For Al Ahly, securing the teenager could prove to be a long-term investment as they aim to maintain dominance both domestically and on the continental stage.

With the summer window nearing and the Club World Cup looming, all eyes will now be on whether Al Ahly can finalise a deal for one of South Africa’s rising stars.