Orlando Pirates agree R51-m deal for defender

Orlando Pirates have reached an agreement with Major League Soccer outfit Chicago Fire for the transfer of defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who has already travelled to the United States this week to finalise the deal.

SABC Sport reports tha, the 20-year-old centreback had been linked with an imminent departure after being spotted at OR Tambo International Airport, attempting to keep his exit under wraps.

Mbokazi’s rise has been closely followed since former Pirates coach Jose Riveiro handed him a breakthrough opportunity last season. He quickly established himself as a first-team regular, drawing interest from abroad. Chicago Fire have now secured his services with a bid believed to be in the region of R51 million, ahead of the January transfer window.

The youngster is expected to officially join the American club after the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where he is tipped for a Bafana Bafana call-up under coach Hugo Broos. Until then, Mbokazi remains available for Pirates’ domestic fixtures, including the Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants on 6 December at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.

His move continues a growing trend of South African talent heading to the MLS, following the recent transfers of Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union), Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Minnesota United), and Njabulo Blom (St Louis City).

For Pirates, Mbokazi’s departure marks another significant outgoing from their development ranks, after winger Mohau Nkota joined Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq in July for a reported R40 million fee.