Orlando Pirates have enquired about signing Cape Town City wonderkid Emile Witbooi, according to iDiski Times journalist Sinethemba Makonco.
However, the Citizens have stood firm on their €1 million (R18.7 million) valuation of the teenager.
As a result, negotiations have reached a standstill. Witbooi has since returned to training with Cape Town City while both clubs weigh up their next move.
RISING STAR ATTRACTS ORLANDO PIRATES ATTENTION
The reported interest comes after the Buccaneers sold Relebohile Mofokeng to Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise earlier this transfer window. Many South African football observers view Witbooi as the next player capable of producing Mofokeng’s level of magic on the pitch.
Born on 28 August 2008 in Kimbarley, Witbooi quickly emerged as one of the country’s most exciting young talents. He is the son of former Mamelodi Sundowns and Cape Town City winger Surprise Ralani, while his performances have already attracted interest from top clubs abroad.
Witbooi developed his game at Tshwaragano All Stars and the School of Excellence before joining the Cape Town City academy in January 2024.
Thereafter, he made history on 2 March 2025 when he debuted against AmaZulu FC at just 16 years, six months and five days. The appearance made him the youngest player to represent Cape Town City‘s first team and the ninth-youngest debutant in South African top-flight history.
Furthermore, Witbooi became the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer later that year. His rapid rise also earned him a trial with Chelsea FC and a management deal with Roc Nation Sports.
BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD
Following Cape Town City’s relegation, Witbooi established himself as a regular in the Motsepe Foundation Championship despite his age.
Meanwhile, his outstanding season earned nominations for both Young Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season at the 2026 PSL Awards.
On the international stage, Witbooi has continued to impress. He starred for South Africa’s Under-17 side at the 2025 Under-17 AFCON and the FIFA U-17 World Cup before helping the Under-20 team win the COSAFA Region 5 Youth Championship. His performances also secured him a place in the tournament’s Best XI.
With Orlando Pirates searching for another elite young talent following Mofokeng’s departure, Witbooi remains a player to watch. However, Cape Town City have made their stance clear, and the reported R18.7 million asking price currently stands between the two clubs.
SHOULD ORLANDO PIRATES PAY THE ASKING PRICE?
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