Orlando Pirates have reportedly earned more than R150 million from the sales of just three academy graduates over the past 12 months.
This has highlighted the club’s growing reputation for developing elite talent especially in the past few seasons.
Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota and Mbekezeli Mbokazi all progressed through the Buccaneers’ youth ranks before establishing themselves in the senior team.
After making impressive breakthroughs, the trio secured lucrative moves abroad.
Orlando Pirates sold Mofokeng for around R70 to 80 million
The latest departure is Mofokeng, who recently completed a move to Belgian Pro League side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
Although Pirates did not disclose the transfer fee, reports estimate the deal to be worth between €3.5 million and €4 million, translating to approximately R70 million to R80 million depending on the exchange rate.
The move is also believed to be among the biggest transfer deals involving a player moving directly from the PSL to Europe.
Mbokazi also secured a high-profile transfer after joining Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire in a deal reportedly worth around $3 million (approximately R52 million).
The defender had spent only 10 months in the Pirates first team before earning his move.
Nkota, meanwhile, completed a transfer to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq in a deal reportedly valued at around R52 million.
Combined, the three transfers have reportedly generated well over R150 million for Orlando Pirates, underlining the success of the club’s investment in youth development.
The Buccaneers may not be done yet. Bafana Bafana winger Oswin Appollis has attracted interest from clubs abroad after another impressive campaign and his performances on the international stage. S
Should a move materialise, Orlando Pirates could reportedly command another transfer fee in the region of R50 million to R60 million.
While the financial rewards are significant, replacing players of such quality will not be easy.
Mbokazi’s departure has already left a gap in defence, while Mofokeng’s creativity, goals and attacking flair will be difficult to replicate as the Buccaneers prepare for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.