Relebohile Mofokeng: Orlando Pirates starboy close to joining Belgian giants

Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng is close to securing his long-awaited move to Europe following reports that a Belgian club has tabled a four-year deal for him.

According to Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad, Union Saint-Gilloise is making significant moves in the transfer market, with the Belgian league runners-up now close to signing Mofokeng.

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos recently noted that the World Cup would be a prime opportunity for his players to secure transfers abroad and Mofokeng appears to be the first to capitalise on this platform with a move to Belgium on the horizon.

Pirates star had bright World Cup

The right-footed playmaker, who often operates on the left wing, featured in three of South Africa’s four World Cup matches. His last appearance was in the Round of 32 defeat to Canada on Sunday, where he was substituted at halftime.

Union SG, Belgium’s third most successful club with 12 league titles, are reported to have been tracking Mofokeng for some time, having been impressed by his standout performances for Orlando Pirates.

He was a key figure in their championship-winning season, contributing ten goals and eight assists in 27 matches. His strong showing at the World Cup has increased the urgency for Union to finalise the deal before his market value rises further.

Mofokeng to command high fee

If the transfer is completed, the Brussels-based club will need to invest several million euros. The plan is to conclude the deal quickly, with Mofokeng expected to fly directly from the United States to Belgium while his international teammates return to South Africa.

For the diminutive midfielder, standing at just 1.68 meters, the move represents a dream come true, though he will face the challenge of adapting to the physical nature of Belgian football.