Relebohile Mofokeng, Fawaaz Basadien, Thembinkosi Lorch and the six explosive Premier Soccer League transfers that could still shake up the window

Orlando Pirates’ golden boy has the world at his feet and clubs lining up at the door. Relebohile Mofokeng has danced through defences with the kind of confidence that turns scouts into superfans. 

But now the question becomes: is it time to spread those wings in Europe or spend one more season dazzling the Soweto faithful? With earlier links to Spanish giants FC Barcelona and now  Israeli sides Maccabi Haifa and Maccabi Tel Aviv reportedly sniffing around, Pirates are playing a delicate game of development vs departure. 

A big-money move reportedly around R31.2 million would make headlines, but a premature exit could hurt both player and club. 

There’s a reason everyone wants Fawaaz Basadien. Consistent, composed and lethal down the left flank, the Stellenbosch FC defender has become a hot commodity in the transfer market. Kaizer Chiefs and Pirates have all made eyes, but Mamelodi Sundowns — with their lure of CAF glory and local dominance — look like the final destination. 

For a team already dripping with talent, Basadien offers depth and tactical versatility. The only question left is when the ink hits the paper, especially with reports suggesting Masandawana might have to beat off competition from North African clubs, who have also entered the race for the 28-year-old. 

If Sundowns come out first and he puts pen to paper, this could be one of the biggest coups of the season — if not the most predictable.

It feels like the plot twist we’ve all been waiting for. Percy Tau, a free agent after his departure from Qatar SC, has PSL fans dreaming of a homecoming. With his European journey full of highs and frustrating halts, and his Egyptian chapter finally closed, many wonder if a return to South Africa — maybe even Sundowns — is on the cards. 

Financially, few can match his expectations. Emotionally, the fit is almost too perfect. Whether it’s to reignite his form or pass the torch to the next generation, a Percy Tau PSL comeback would break the internet and quite possibly the league standings.

Lorch’s time at Mamelodi Sundowns has been turbulent, and signs point to a permanent exit. Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca are reportedly making a last-ditch effort to secure his services ahead of the July 31 loan deadline.

Initially signed on a low-risk loan in January, facilitated by then head coach Rhulani Mokwena, Lorch impressed, especially at the FIFA Club World Cup against Juventus. That form saw Sundowns double their asking price to €1 million (R20.6 million). 

The hold-up? Sundowns now view Lorch as a valuable asset, both on the pitch and in the market. For the player, a move to Wydad offers stability and a platform to lead again. But time is ticking — he’ll either stay in Casablanca, return to South Africa, or attract interest from even further afield.

Saleng’s Pirates future remains up in the air. Once a key figure, he’s been on the fringes since late last year, with rumours swirling about a move to Kaizer Chiefs amid frustrations at the Buccaneers. Some even claimed a deal was close, but nothing concrete ever surfaced.

Now, with Abdeslam Ouaddou taking over at Pirates, the script may be flipping. The new coach is reportedly offering players a clean slate and Saleng could benefit. He’s expected to be assessed during pre-season in Spain according to Soccer Laduma’s Siya Crew and a revival under Ouaddou isn’t off the table.

The Brazilian was one of Sundowns’ standout players at the FIFA Club World Cup, and naturally, global interest has followed. His flair, eye for goal and fearlessness on the ball have earned admirers across Europe and South America, including his home nation. 

But Sundowns aren’t in the mood to sell, not without a fight. Ribeiro still has unfinished business in Chloorkop, especially with the CAF Champions League and another domestic clean sweep in sight. Yet in football, timing is everything. If the right offer lands on the table, this could be one of the most lucrative PSL exports.

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