Orlando Pirates have reportedly received an approach from Major League Soccer side Minnesota United for Relebohile Mofokeng – but with no agreement in place and talks described as “ongoing,” the Soweto giants remain firmly focused on football first.
The 20-year-old winger, who is the reigning Betway Premiership Young Player of the Season, has been central to the Buccaneers’ attacking play and continues to feature in match preparations this week.
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Respected MLS journalist Tom Bogert has stated that Minnesota United submitted a bid “north of $2 million” (around R35 million) for the Bafana Bafana international, adding that Mofokeng could qualify under the league’s U22 Initiative roster slot.
Importantly, this framing – a bid lodged, discussions ongoing, falls short of a potential completed deal and reflects the exploratory stage of many cross-border negotiations.
Given past instances where overseas links were overstated, Pirates are understandably sensitive around stories concerning their star winger.
Meanwhile, MLS clubs have increased their scouting in Africa in recent years, particularly for dynamic wingers who suit high-tempo pressing systems.
Minnesota United, who are home to Bafana attacker Bongokuhle Hlongwane, have a record of integrating young forwards and using the U22 Initiative to bring in emerging talents with reduced budget impact.
Bogert’s report that Mofokeng would fall into that category aligns with how MLS teams typically structure such deals.
Mofokeng’s appeal is clear to many clubs that could be interested in him. Still only 20, he has already collected landmark moments for both club and country, graduating from promising youngster to consistent match-winner.
His back-to-back individual accolades underline sustained growth rather than a fleeting run of form, and his contribution of 12 goals and 15 assists last season further explains why overseas clubs are keeping a close watch.
However, there is no official confirmation of a transfer or bid for the talented player. A submitted bid is not an agreement, and Pirates have not announced any change in Mofokeng’s status.
The club’s priorities remain sporting. With league fixtures having resumed this week and a decisive MTN8 semi-final ahead, stability around key players is vital.
Past precedent suggests Pirates will make their position clear if and when there is something concrete to communicate.
For Mofokeng, any future move will be judged not only on the price but also on development opportunities, playing time, and how it impacts his Bafana prospects.
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While MLS offers competitive football and strong infrastructure, the timing might need to align with both Pirates’ ambitions and supporter expectations that their top talents help deliver success now.
Until there is an official update from the Soweto giants, what has been reported for now is that an MLS side has submitted a bid and discussions are ongoing, all according to the foreign journalist. Mofokeng remains a Pirates player preparing for the team’s upcoming matches.
According to a report by ESPN, Minnesota are understood to be keen on the player, with an agreement on personal terms imminent.
Soccer Laduma contacted Minnesota United and Pirates for comment on Bogert's report but no response had been received by the time this story was published.
