By Linda Ximba |
The rising international value of Mohau Nkota has sparked growing transfer speculation, with the Al-Ettifaq winger reportedly attracting attention from clubs across several football markets.
Nkota, who also represents Bafana Bafana, joined the Saudi outfit earlier this season after leaving Orlando Pirates in a deal believed to be worth about £1.5 million (R36 million). Performance-related add-ons could push the transfer fee to around £2.1 million (R50 million).
Now, new reports suggest the 23-year-old attacker’s market value has climbed to roughly €3 million (about R60 million), highlighting his rapid rise since moving to the Saudi Pro League.
However, the situation around Nkota’s role at the club raises questions. Despite the increased valuation, the winger has seen limited game time in recent weeks. In Al-Ettifaq’s last eight matches, he has played only brief minutes and missed four fixtures entirely, fuelling speculation about his standing under head coach Saad Al-Shehri.
Nkota’s agent, Karabo Mathang-Tshabuse of P Management, confirmed that global interest in the winger is increasing but declined to reveal which clubs are monitoring him.
“He is a valuable player, so there will always be interest from across the globe with regard to him,” Mathang-Tshabuse said.
She added that their agency continues to receive direct enquiries from clubs interested in the player’s services.
The agent also addressed concerns about Nkota’s safety amid tensions in parts of the Middle East, stressing that they remain in constant contact with him.
“His safety is our concern. We are in close tabs with him, and he tells us he is safe,” she said.
For now, Nkota remains focused on establishing himself in Saudi Arabia, but the sharp increase in his valuation suggests his next career move could soon become one of the most closely watched transfers involving a South African player.
