A staggering price tag has been placed on a teenage sensation's head as Zimbabwean football officials look to maximize returns on arguably their most promising talent in a generation.
As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, Orlando Pirates have shown interest in winger Prince Ndlovu who once trained with the Houghton-based club before his failed move to Europe.
READ: High-Ranking Insider Pushes Pirates Toward Rulani
A high-ranking official at a Zimbabwean club with direct oversight of transfer negotiations has now indicated that Highlanders FC are believed to be asking for R15 million from Pirates if they are to sign the player dubbed as the next Peter Ndlovu.
"Highlanders FC value Prince (Ndlovu) and that's why they are pricing him at around R15million. For now this price is believed to be directed at South African team Orlando Pirates because apparently they are the ones who have enquired about his services. Highlanders believe it's a fair price looking at his talent, quality and future ahead of him," the insider told the Siya crew.
A football intermediary operating across Southern African borders with connections to both clubs stated that the Buccaneers will face tough competition from another suitor from Europe who have been following Ndlovu's progress for some time now.
READ: Could Saleng Move To Chiefs: Pirates Update
"Apart from Orlando Pirates there is a European club that has been monitoring him for some time now. It's Sturm Graz from the Austria Bundesliga. So that price of R15 million could also be influenced by the fact that there is interest from Europe as well," the second insider revealed.
The 19-year-old is currently part of the Zimbabwe national team competing at the COSAFA Cup in Bloemfontein in South Africa.
The substantial asking price represents one of the highest valuations for a player coming directly from the Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League in recent years, highlighting Highlanders' belief in Ndlovu's potential.
With Pirates scouts reportedly watching him at the COSAFA Cup, the Sea Robbers will have an opportunity to assess whether the talented teenager justifies the investment. The presence of European interest adds another dimension to negotiations, potentially forcing the Buccaneers to act decisively if they want to secure the services of a player many believe could follow in the footsteps of his legendary namesake.
