Relebohile Mofokeng’s Belgium stay could be short as Bafana Bafana star attracts fresh interest

Bafana Bafana sensation Relebohile Mofokeng could be heading for another transfer sooner than expected after making an impressive start to life in Belgium with Union Saint-Gilloise.

The 21-year-old left Orlando Pirates after an outstanding 2025-26 campaign and quickly established himself as one of the exciting young South African talents in European football.

Mofokeng earned his move to Union SG after scoring 10 goals and providing eight assists in 27 league appearances for Pirates last season.

His form has continued since arriving in Belgium. He has already scored twice in four Jupiter Pro League matches in the 2026-27 campaign.

He also played a decisive role in Union SG’s Belgian Super Cup triumph in July, converting the clinching penalty during their shootout victory over Club Brugge.

His rapid adaptation has now raised questions over how long he will remain in Belgium, with Bafana Bafana legend Shaun Bartlett expecting the youngster to move on sooner rather than later.

Pirates face another big-sale decision

Mofokeng is not the only Orlando Pirates player whose future could generate significant transfer interest.

The South African champions are reportedly facing a fresh test of their resolve over winger Oswin Appollis, with an unnamed foreign club said to be interested in signing the 25-year-old.

Should an acceptable offer arrive, Pirates’ hierarchy could be forced to consider another major sale after previously allowing Mofokeng to depart.

Appollis has quickly become an important figure at the club since joining in July 2025. He contributed nine goals and six assists in 30 league appearances last season, underlining the potential challenge of replacing his production.

Pirates have brought back Mohau Nkota on loan as part of their options, although supporters will expect the 21-year-old to immediately make an impact.

Nkota previously left Pirates alongside Mofokeng and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, continuing a remarkable trend of academy graduates generating significant value for the Buccaneers.

Champions League challenge awaits

While transfer speculation continues to surround their players, Pirates must maintain their focus on the pitch.

The defending South African champions were held to a goalless draw by Mauritian side La Cure Waves FC in the first leg of their CAF Champions League qualifying tie.

The Buccaneers will travel into the second leg on Saturday, 12 September, knowing that progression remains essential as they pursue another campaign on the continental stage.

Their attention will then return to domestic competition, with a league meeting against Durban City scheduled for 17 September.