Libyan giants circle rising Stellenbosch winger Langelihle Phili

The approach comes hot on the heels of the North African giants completing the high-profile signing of another SA international in Thembinkosi Lorch from Wydad Athletic Club in a lucrative January transfer.

Phili recently featured for the country at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile, where his performances caught the eye of scouts and clubs across the continent and beyond. Al-Ittihad, who appear to be in the midst of an aggressive recruitment drive, are understood to have submitted a late bid for the 21-year-old shortly before their transfer window closed.

However, due to time constraints – and possibly Stellies’ unwillingness to sell and then find a replacement – the deal failed to materialise.

Those close to the situation indicate to the public broadcaster that both Phili and Stellenbosch may be holding out for a potential move to Europe, with growing interest from clubs monitoring emerging talent in the Premier Soccer League. 

Phili has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, having first been promoted to the senior side by coach Steve Barker, following his move from AmaZulu reserves and has since remained a key figure under current head coach Gavin Hunt.

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The winger has made 24 appearances this season, scoring seven goals – an impressive return for a wide attacker still in the early stages of his development.

It remains to be seen whether Al-Ittihad will return with an improved offer at the end of the campaign. 

By then, however, SABC Sport understands that European clubs could also enter the race, following a growing trend of South African youngsters securing moves abroad as highlighted by recent transfers of defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Puso Dithejane to Chicago Fire in the Major League Soccer.