R120 million bid, veteran deal close

Orlando Pirates have concluded their European pre-season tour on a strong note, defeating La Liga side Granada 2-0.

But while the win provides some momentum ahead of the new campaign, the focus quickly shifted to off-field developments — particularly surrounding a potential R120 million move and a contract renewal for a senior player.

Relebohile Mofokeng remains the centre of attention as international interest intensifies. The 20-year-old star found the net in the Granada win, and scouts from Europe are circling. According to club sources, Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven are leading the race for his signature, with negotiations pushing well past the R100 million mark.

“R100 million is like a round figure. It’s more than that! The amount they were negotiating for was initially R120 million,” an insider confirmed. “It’s believed to be more than that.”

PSV’s interest appears to have shifted firmly to Mofokeng after they initially considered another local target, Iqraam Rayners. A second insider added, “There are different scouts from Holland who are believed to be working with recruiters for PSV. They enquired about Rayners, but now they’re looking at Mofokeng for a long-term investment.”

Veteran stays

While a major exit may be brewing, contract talks on the domestic front offer stability. Orlando Pirates have reportedly reached an advanced stage of discussions with a 35-year-old veteran midfielder. The player’s agent, Sizwe Ntshangase, confirmed that all parties are satisfied.

“What I can confirm is that our discussions with Pirates have gone very well,” Ntshangase said. “It is up to Pirates to issue an official statement on the contract and its duration.”

With one of their brightest young stars possibly heading to Europe and a seasoned figure likely staying put, Pirates are balancing youth and experience as they prepare for the 2025/26 campaign.