Agent confirms European transfer plot for Pirates star after AFCON

Evidence Makgopa’s recent upturn in form at Orlando Pirates and his selection for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco have intensified transfer interest, with his agent, Paul Mitchell, confirming plans to secure a European move for the striker following the continental tournament.

The 25-year-old forward is currently with the Bafana Bafana squad, preparing for the AFCON, which runs from December into January. Makgopa earned his national team call-up off the back of a strong start to the 2025/26 campaign, playing a significant role in Pirates’ early success, including triumphs in the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Makgopa’s contributions—four goals and three assists in 18 appearances across all competitions—have been crucial in seeing the Buccaneers end the first half of the season atop the Betway Premiership standings.

AFCON as the Launchpad For Pirates Striker Makgopa

Following recent high-profile transfers facilitated by Pirates for Mohau Nkota (Al-Ettifaq) and Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire), Mitchell indicated that the club is open to moving Makgopa should the right offer materialise. The agent views the AFCON as a critical window to finalise a switch abroad for the Limpopo-born player.

Speaking to the SoccerBeat podcast, Mitchell disclosed that this isn’t the first time Makgopa has attracted international attention, revealing that previous European offers were turned down by his former club, Baroka FC, before he signed for Pirates.

“It’s no secret that before Makgopa went to Pirates, we had two significant offers on the table with a lot of money at the time for Baroka to go overseas, it was rejected, and he went to Pirates,” Mitchell stated.

English Championship A Key Target

Mitchell confirmed that while there was interest from North African clubs in the last window, they prioritised a move to Europe, citing concerns over payment reliability in the North African region.

Crucially, the agent singled out the English Championship as a potential destination where Makgopa’s attributes could shine.

“I think a lot of people don’t understand that when you go to North Africa, one of the biggest things is receiving your money… So with Europe, I’m hoping that through the AFCON, he could get a move. He’s offering a lot, and I think he could thrive in the English Championship because he has that work rate and the agility.”

The transfer desire was clearly communicated during his contract negotiations with the Buccaneers. “We are always open, and when we did his new deal with Pirates, it was not a secret that the desire is to go overseas, and if the offer is right, I’m sure they will facilitate the move.”

Makgopa’s performances in Morocco could therefore be scrutinised not just by Bafana fans, but by potential recruiters across the English Channel, eager to add a dynamic striker to their ranks.

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