Orlando Pirates have been one of the busiest clubs during the current transfer window, strengthening their squad while also sanctioning the departures of several key players.
The biggest transfer story has been the sale of Relebohile Mofokeng to Belgian champions Union Saint-Gilloise.
The 21-year-old playmaker becomes the third Pirates academy graduate to secure a move abroad in the past year, following Mohau Nkota and Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
In a statement, the Buccaneers confirmed that an agreement had been reached with the Belgian club.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that it has reached an agreement with Royale Union Saint-Gilloise for the transfer of Relebohile Mofokeng.
While the two clubs have concluded negotiations over the transfer fee and structure of the deal, Orlando Pirates can confirm that the move remains subject to Mofokeng passing a medical examination and finalising personal terms with the Belgian Pro League side.”
The club also revealed that an agreement in principle had been reached before the start of the FIFA World Cup, with the transfer only being finalised after the tournament.
Orlando Pirates sell Mofokeng
Another Pirates star who could be heading to Europe is Oswin Appollis.
The Bafana Bafana winger has been strongly linked with Portuguese giants FC Porto after an impressive debut season with the Buccaneers.
Appollis joined Pirates last year and quickly established himself as one of the club’s standout performers. Should he complete a move to Porto, Pirates could earn more than R100 million from the combined sales of Mofokeng and Appollis.
Pirates have also been active in the transfer market, bringing in seven new signings ahead of the new season as they prepare for pre-season training.
The Soweto giants are still looking to strengthen further, with Bafana Bafana and Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi believed to be one of their top targets. The highly rated defender is seen as an ideal addition as Orlando Pirates look to add depth in the right-back position.
Another player linked with a move to the Buccaneers is veteran striker Peter Shalulile, who is currently a free agent after leaving Mamelodi Sundowns.
His experience and proven goalscoring record could make him an attractive option for Pirates as they continue to reshape their squad for the upcoming campaign.
