Ex-Orlando Pirates attacker set to join Benfica? Agent opens up on versatile Bafana Bafana star

Former Orlando Pirates attacker Mohau Nkota has been heavily linked with a move to Portuguese outfit Benfica.

The versatile attacker has been a key player for the Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq, a club he joined at the start of the ongoing campaign for a reported fee of around R40 million.

Despite being played at left-back by his current team, the 21-year-old has been influential in attack as well. In the 18 games played across all competitions, Nkota has managed two goals and three assists.

Reports have it that Nkota is on his way to Benfica to help in his development, and that the deal is imminent.

Ex-Orlando Pirates’ Benfica reports explained

Karabo Tshabuse, who is from Nkota’s representatives,  P Management Agency, has conceded that there are, indeed, negotiations going on with respective parties about Nkota’s future.

However, he insists it is a permanent move and not a loan one as initially reported by a section of the football stakeholders.

“There has been no decision. We are engaged with his club about his future and several teams about their interest in transferring him. If anything happens, it would be a permanent transfer,” he opened up as quoted by SABC Sport.

Nkota is among the players expected to make the Bafana Bafana squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11.

The attacker is one of the trusted played in the South Africa squad, explaining why he has to continue playing top football in the next couple of months to remain in the best shape for the global competition.