South Africa’s Bafana Bafana trio Olwethu Makhanya, Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Relebohile Mofokeng are attracting attention as potential future English Premier League players.
The three have impressed in leagues regarded as established stepping stones to England, with Makhanya performing for Rangers in Scotland, Mbokazi playing for Chicago Fire FC in Major League Soccer and Mofokeng making an impact in Belgium.
Makhanya, 22, appears to be leading the way. The Durban-born central defender is the reigning Scottish Premiership Player of the Month and has reportedly attracted interest from Brentford and Sunderland.
Rangers have also been a productive source of Premier League transfers. Makhanya’s club and Mofokeng’s Royale Union Saint-Gilloise have each seen six players move to the Premier League this season.
If Makhanya can maintain his current level of consistency, a move to England next season – or even as early as January – would not come as a surprise.
Mbokazi is also understood to be on the radar of English clubs. The 21-year-old joined Chicago Fire FC in January but has already been linked with Nottingham Forest.
His performances earned him fourth place in the MLS Under 22 best young talent rankings. Mbokazi’s composure, physical strength and ability to help launch attacks are qualities that appeal to clubs in England.
Consistency will be key in determining whether the defender can secure a move to the Premier League as soon as next season.
Mofokeng brings a different set of qualities to the trio. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been linked with Brighton and Chelsea, as well as clubs from France and Germany.
His technical ability, creativity and close control have helped him trouble opposing defenders. Since joining Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in August, Mofokeng has scored four goals and provided two assists in 12 games.
The three players still have further progress to make before an English move becomes a reality, but their development has offered South African football supporters cause for optimism.
A place in the Premier League would represent a significant achievement for Makhanya, Mbokazi or Mofokeng. Their success could also enhance the reputation of South African players in the international transfer market.
