Orlando Pirates agree R51-m deal as Mbekezeli Mbokazi seals MLS switch

Reports linked the 20-year-old with an imminent departure after he was spotted at OR Tambo International Airport attempting to make a low-key exit.

Interest in Mbokazi has been simmering for months ever since former coach Jose Riveiro thrust him into the spotlight last season and the young centreback embraced the opportunity, rapidly growing into a first-team regular and attracting attention abroad.

Chicago Fire have now won the race for his signature with a bid in the region of R51-million ahead of the January transfer window.

READ: Mamelodi Sundowns sweep aside Saint-Eloi Lupopo in Champions League opener

Mbokazi is expected to join the American club shortly after the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where he is widely tipped for a Bafana Bafana call-up from coach Hugo Broos next month.

Before then, he is still set to feature for Pirates in their remaining domestic fixtures, including the Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants on 6 December at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Mbokazi becomes the latest South African talent to head to the MLS, following the recent moves of Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union), Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Minnesota United) and Njabulo Blom, who previously turned out for St Louis City.

Pirates are now poised to complete another major outgoing transfer from their development ranks after winger Mohau Nkota joined Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq in July for a reported R40-million fee.