As another transfer window heats up, one name that keeps popping up is Relebohile Mofokeng.
At just 20 years old, the Orlando Pirates winger has become one of South Africa’s most exciting football prospects.
Many had expected him to jet off to Europe before last season even ended, but as the new campaign approaches, Rele is still wearing the black and white of the Buccaneers.
Spain Tour Shows He’s Still Focused
Despite the swirling transfer rumours, Mofokeng has kept his head down.
He recently travelled with the Pirates for their pre-season tour of Spain, where he made an impression by scoring two goals in four games.
It’s clear he’s still giving his all, even though his future feels uncertain.
Interestingly, it was his teammate Mohau Nkota who made a big move — joining Saudi side Ettifaq — sparking whispers that Mofokeng might follow him.
But so far? Crickets. Nothing confirmed, and no official offers on the table yet.
A Breakout Year and Bafana Bafana Recognition
Last season was a major turning point for Rele.
He didn’t just shine in the DStv Premiership — he also earned a few well-deserved caps for the national team, Bafana Bafana.
His performances were full of pace, creativity, and maturity well beyond his years.
With the MTN8 competition kicking off soon, fans are asking one big question: Should Relebohile Mofokeng stay with Pirates or make the jump to Europe now?
Why Staying Might Be the Smart Move
If Rele sticks around for just one more season, it might actually work in his favour.
The Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) is just around the corner, and there’s a good chance he’ll be part of the Bafana Bafana squad.
A strong showing on that stage could skyrocket his value — from the current estimated R30 million to possibly R100 million or more.
Plus, staying a bit longer allows him to refine his game, gain more experience, and be fully match-fit going into January — when European clubs are always scouting for mid-season reinforcements.
If he keeps his form, a move to one of Europe’s top five leagues wouldn’t just be possible — it’d be inevitable.
The Risks of Staying Too Long
But let’s be honest — there’s another side to this. Mofokeng is young, hungry, and clearly itching to take his game to the next level.
If he ends up staying, there’s a risk he could feel stuck or demotivated.
And with Oswin Appollis possibly taking over on the left wing — Rele’s preferred position — he might be forced to shift to the right, where he’s less comfortable.
Then there’s the elephant in the room: injury.
So far, Rele has been lucky on that front, but all it takes is one bad tackle or awkward fall to change everything.
Missing Afcon due to injury would be a huge blow — not just personally, but for his career ambitions too.
What’s Best for Relebohile Mofokeng?
It’s a tricky one. Should he hold out for a perfect move and use Afcon to boost his value?
Or take the plunge now and start building his European legacy?
Whatever he decides, Relebohile Mofokeng has already proven he’s one of the most exciting young talents South African football has produced in years.
The next few weeks could be life-changing.