Rising Star Mofokeng Set for €1.5 Million Move to Al-Ettifaq
Orlando Pirates reach agreement to sell Rele Mofokeng to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq in a deal reportedly worth €1.5 million (approximately R31 million), marking a significant milestone in the young star’s rising career. The move to the Saudi Pro League signals the growing global demand for South African talent and opens a new chapter for both Orlando Pirates and Relebohile Mofokeng.
A Breakthrough Transfer for South African Football
According to KickOff, the Al-Ettifaq transfer is in its final stages, pending approval from the Saudi club’s Sustainability Committee. If confirmed, Relebohile Mofokeng will become one of the few South African teenagers to secure a big-money move abroad at such an early stage in his career.
The deal is being celebrated not only for its financial impact—valued at €1.5 million—but also for its symbolic importance, showcasing the growing reputation of South African footballers on the global stage.
Orlando Pirates Confirm Agreement with Al-Ettifaq
Though an official announcement is still pending, club insiders confirm that Orlando Pirates have agreed on the sale. The Buccaneers’ management expressed confidence in the deal and pride in their academy product’s achievement.
Mofokeng’s teammate and fellow academy graduate, Mohau Nkota, recently made a similar move to Al-Ettifaq, suggesting a budding relationship between the two clubs and a potential pathway for other rising stars.
Relebohile Mofokeng: A Star on the Rise
Just 19 years old, Relebohile Mofokeng has emerged as one of the brightest prospects in South African football. Known for his pace, creativity, and composure on the ball, Mofokeng lit up the Betway Premiership over the last two seasons. His performances caught the attention of multiple clubs across the globe.
During the current transfer window, he has been linked with:
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Israeli Premier League clubs
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Major League Soccer (MLS) teams in the United States
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PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands (reportedly false)
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Pyramids FC, recent CAF Champions League winners
Despite this competition, Al-Ettifaq have emerged victorious in securing his signature, thanks in part to existing ties and the opportunity for Mofokeng to develop in one of the world’s fastest-growing leagues.
Saudi Pro League’s Growing Influence
The Saudi Pro League has become a global talking point following high-profile signings of stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mané. Now, the league is increasingly turning its attention to young talent from Africa, with Relebohile Mofokeng seen as a future asset.
Football analysts note that the move is a strategic win for both Orlando Pirates, who gain financially, and Mofokeng, who gains valuable international exposure.
Orlando Pirates’ Academy Produces Yet Another Talent
This transfer also reflects positively on the Orlando Pirates development system, which continues to produce players capable of competing at the highest level. Head coach Jose Riveiro praised Mofokeng’s work ethic and talent, stating:
“He’s one of the most focused young men I’ve worked with. This opportunity is well deserved.”
Pirates fans have expressed mixed emotions—pride in his success, but disappointment at losing a rising star. Many have taken to social media to send their best wishes, calling it “a bittersweet goodbye.”
Awaiting Final Approval
The final hurdle for the transfer is the Sustainability Committee of Al-Ettifaq, which reviews the club’s financial and player acquisition strategies in line with Saudi regulations. Once cleared, an official announcement is expected within days.
Sources suggest that Mofokeng has already agreed to personal terms, and only the paperwork remains. The player’s representatives are currently in Saudi Arabia finalizing details.
What This Means for South African Football
The Al-Ettifaq transfer is a reminder of South Africa’s rich footballing talent and the international market’s growing appetite for players who bring flair, intelligence, and versatility. It also sets a new benchmark for transfers involving local clubs and raises the profile of the Betway Premiership.
Football agent Sandile Ndlovu commented:
“This deal shows that local development structures are paying off. It also puts South Africa back on the global scouting map.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Mofokeng
For Relebohile Mofokeng, this is just the beginning. Playing in the Saudi Pro League will expose him to world-class coaching, elite competition, and new tactical systems that will accelerate his growth.
With strong performances in Saudi Arabia, he could eventually move to a top-tier European club, following in the footsteps of other African stars who used the Middle East as a stepping stone.
Conclusion
The news that Orlando Pirates reach agreement to sell Rele Mofokeng to Al-Ettifaq is a defining moment in the current transfer window. The €1.5 million deal reflects the value of South African talent and affirms the growing relationship between African and Middle Eastern football markets.
As fans await the official announcement, excitement builds for what lies ahead—for Mofokeng, for Orlando Pirates, and for South African football as a whole.
References (Mainstream South African Media)
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KickOff – Orlando Pirates agree to Mofokeng transfer with Al-Ettifaq
🔗 https://www.kickoff.com/news/articles/local/categories/news/pirates-agree-to-mofokeng-transfer/729356 -
TimesLIVE – Rele Mofokeng on verge of joining Saudi club
🔗 https://www.timeslive.co.za/sport/soccer/2025-07-30-rele-mofokeng-on-verge-of-joining-saudi-club/ -
Soccer Laduma – Al-Ettifaq move for Pirates’ young star Mofokeng
🔗 https://www.soccerladuma.co.za/news/articles/local/categories/south-africa/al-ettifaq-move-for-pirates-young-star/729372 -
SowetanLIVE – Saudi interest in SA football grows with Mofokeng deal
🔗 https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/sport/soccer/2025-07-31-saudi-interest-in-sa-football-grows-with-mofokeng-deal/ -
IOL Sport – Relebohile Mofokeng transfer: What it means for Pirates
🔗 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/soccer/psl/relebohile-mofokeng-transfer-what-it-means-for-pirates-45fd74d2
