Relebohile Mofokeng to Al-Ettifaq? Saudi Regulations May Complicate Potential Transfer

Reports from abroad have reignited speculation around Orlando Pirates rising star Relebohile Mofokeng and a potential move to Saudi Arabia, with Al-Ettifaq touted as a likely destination. The young winger’s standout performances have caught the attention of clubs around the world, but Saudi Pro League regulations may stand in the way of a swift transfer.

According to a report by Al-Midan Sports, a move for the 20-year-old sensation is “imminent,” though Ettifaq may face complications when it comes to registering the player under league rules. The Saudi Pro League only permits two foreign players under the age of 21 per club. Currently, Ettifaq have already filled those slots with two players:

• Mohau Nkota (20) – A fellow South African who signed earlier this year.
• Joao Costa (20) – A Portuguese attacker who is recovering from an ACL injury and is expected to return in October.

This creates a dilemma for the Saudi side. Mofokeng’s 21st birthday also falls in October, meaning the club would either have to wait until after his birthday to register him or make a tough call on replacing one of their existing U21 foreign players. Registering him prematurely would force a reshuffle in their squad structure.

The Sharpeville-born winger has long been viewed as one of South Africa’s most promising football prospects. His breakthrough season with Orlando Pirates saw him register an impressive 12 goals and 15 assists across all competitions, earning him a place in the club’s official 34-man squad for the 2025/26 campaign.

Interest in Mofokeng stretches well beyond Saudi Arabia. Clubs in the Netherlands and Israel have reportedly submitted offers for the Bucs’ starlet, all of which have been turned down by Orlando Pirates so far. The player remains grounded, focused on his growth at club level, while speculation continues to build about where his future lies.

Should Ettifaq decide to proceed with the deal, they will have to work around the age-based registration regulation or delay Mofokeng’s official arrival. The intricacies of the Saudi Pro League’s foreign player policy have added a new layer of uncertainty to what otherwise seemed like a straightforward transfer.

For now, Mofokeng remains with Orlando Pirates, but the growing global interest and the complex timing of Saudi league rules mean that his next move will require careful negotiation and planning. Whether he eventually dons the Al-Ettifaq jersey or remains in South Africa a while longer, one thing is certain — Relebohile Mofokeng’s star is still on the rise.