SURPRISE TRANSFER! Orlando Pirates confirm Mohau Nkota move to Saudi Arabia after one season of PSL football

Orlando Pirates forward Mohau Nkota has secured a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq.

The 20-year-old moves after just one season of playing Premier Soccer League football after the Buccaneers promoted him from their reserve side.

"Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that an agreement has been reached for the permanent transfer of Mohau Nkota to Ettifaq Club in the Saudi Pro League," Pirates said in a statement.

"The move is subject to the 20-year-old agreeing to personal terms and passing a medical.

"Everyone at Orlando Pirates wishes Mohau Nkota the very best as he begins this exciting new chapter in his career. May he continue to soar and carry the Buccaneers’ spirit with pride – because remember: Once and Always!"

Nkota's rise has been rapid, from being entrusted with Pirates' attack in crucial CAF Champions League matches to the transfer to Saudi Arabia.

He has also broken into the Bafana Bafana set up and made his national team debut against Tanzania in June.

With South Africa set to take part in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Nkota would be hoping the move to Saudi Arabia helps him stay in coach Hugo Broos' plans.

What could make Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou comfortable with Nkota's move is the arrival of wideman Oswin Appollis.

That creates space for Appollis to play regularly, although the Buccaneers could be prepared for the departure of another winger Relebohile Mofokeng.