Mbokazi Set to Sign with Chicago Fire in $3M Deal

Pirates' Mbokazi heads to MLS in big-money move

Orlando Pirates' Mbekezeli Mbokazi is on the verge of signing with Major League Soccer's Chicago Fire in a $3 million transfer deal.

Mbokazi's potential move to Chicago Fire would leave him short of match practice before the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco...

Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi is on the verge of signing with Major League Soccer's Chicago Fire, with the Pirates set to pocket a US$3-million transfer fee. Mbokazi, 20, has been a standout performer for Pirates, captaining the team to the MTN8 title and earning five caps for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana.

Mbokazi and his agent arrived in Chicago on Friday for talks with the Fire, who are reportedly offering him a lengthy deal. If the transfer goes through, Mbokazi will likely have played his last game for Pirates, who will be searching for a replacement for their young captain.

The 20-year-old centre-back has been impressive for Pirates, making his debut in March and quickly establishing himself as a key player. His performances have attracted interest from European clubs, but Chicago Fire is now poised to make him the latest South African player to join MLS.

Mbokazi's potential move could be a major score for the club, who nurtured him through their junior ranks. The 20-year-old centre-back has been linked with a move away from South Africa, with national team coach Hugo Broos advising him to leave soon to reach his full potential.

Mbokazi, who's left-footed, made his debut in March and has impressed in a short time. He's already captained Pirates this season, leading them to MTN8 success, and made his South Africa debut in June, earning five caps, including last weekend's 3-1 win over Zambia.

If Mbokazi signs for Chicago Fire, it'll likely be his last game for Pirates, even if the MLS season starts in February. Pirates might bench him for the Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants on December 6, as they're searching for their second trophy of the season.

Pirates have a busy schedule ahead, and with Mbokazi's potential departure, they'll need to find a replacement. His leadership and skills will be missed, but the club will focus on finding a suitable successor.

𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗦𝗙𝗘𝗥 𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘!@orlandopirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has travelled to the USA to discuss a move to #MLS side, Chicago Fire, as per Mark Gleeson.#OnceAlways#UNPLAYABLE pic.twitter.com/PoBV5brnMK

— #UNPLAYABLE (@UnplayableZA) November 22, 2025

Mbokazi's potential move to Chicago Fire would leave him short of match practice before the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, but there aren't any scheduled games for South African clubs between December 6 and the tournament's start on December 21. Bafana players are set to report to camp on November 27, 14 days before kickoff.

Chicago Fire have been eyeing Mbokazi for months, checking out his on-field performances and off-field personality. If the deal goes through, it'd be a big move for the young centre-back, taking his career to MLS.