Al-Ettifaq Table Improved €1.5M Bid for Relebohile Mofokeng Amid U21 Squad Constraints
Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq have reportedly submitted an improved offer of €1.5 million (approximately R31.1 million) for Orlando Pirates’ rising star Relebohile Mofokeng, as the club intensifies efforts to strengthen its youthful ranks ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Sources close to the negotiations in Saudi Arabia suggest that Al-Ettifaq are prepared to outbid other interested parties to secure the 19-year-old attacking midfielder, whose rapid ascent in South African football has drawn international attention.
Mofokeng, known for his technical flair and composure in tight spaces, has been on the radar of several European and Middle Eastern clubs following standout performances for Pirates in both the domestic league and CAF competitions.
However, the Saudi Pro League’s U21 registration cap presents a critical hurdle. Under current regulations, each team is permitted to register only two U21 players per season. Al-Ettifaq would therefore have to make a strategic sacrifice, likely by opting not to register injured Portuguese youngster João Costa, to make room for Mofokeng.
“The club views Mofokeng as a long-term investment, and this revised offer reflects their belief in his potential,” a source familiar with the deal told FARPost on condition of anonymity. “They are ready to make space for him, even if it means reshuffling the current youth player slots.”
Orlando Pirates have yet to officially respond to the bid, though insiders suggest the club is open to negotiations, provided any transfer includes key performance-based add-ons and future resale clauses.
Should the move materialize, Mofokeng would join a growing list of African talent plying their trade in the lucrative Saudi league, and his arrival could signal Al-Ettifaq’s intent to pivot toward younger, dynamic players capable of long-term impact.
More updates are expected as the transfer window deadline approaches and both clubs weigh their next moves.
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