Nottingham Forest have shown in recent transfer windows that they are prepared to invest in emerging talent, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi looks like another player who fits that approach perfectly.
The South African centre-back has enjoyed a remarkable rise over the last two years.
Born in KwaZulu-Natal, Mbokazi first caught attention through youth football before earning an opportunity with Orlando Pirates. He progressed rapidly through the club’s academy and made his senior breakthrough while still a teenager, impressing with a level of composure.
His performances quickly attracted overseas interest.
Chicago Fire secured his signature earlier this year, but his reputation has continued to grow thanks to a series of outstanding displays on the international stage.
Mbokazi was one of South Africa’s standout performers during the World Cup, where his calm defending, intelligent positioning and confidence in possession helped Bafana Bafana reach the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.
Despite being one of the youngest players in Hugo Broos’ squad, he regularly looked like one of its leaders, producing assured performances against experienced international forwards.
Former Chelsea captain John Terry has also been hugely impressed.
Terry praised Mbokazi’s mentality, describing his attitude as one of his greatest strengths and backing the young defender to become “a big star” if he continues developing in the same way.
“I think he’s a top, top player. I think he’s actually got the potential to be one of the big stars in terms of defenders and the young stars that can be a real positive coming out of that,” Terry told SuperSport.
“I really like him. I like his attitude, the mentality side of things that I see. I’m excited to see him against some bigger and better opposition as well throughout this tournament.”
That is significant praise from one of the Premier League’s greatest centre-backs and reflects just how highly the African prospect is now regarded.
Oliver Glasner has already shown a willingness to trust young players, and Mbokazi’s ability to defend aggressively while remaining comfortable on the ball makes him an attractive option for a Premier League side looking to strengthen for both the present and the future.
Nottingham Forest make approach for Mbekezeli Mbokazi
According to ESPN, Nottingham Forest have now made an approach for the 20-year-old.
Forest are said to be among the clubs exploring a deal for Mbokazi following his impressive World Cup campaign, although they face competition from elsewhere in Europe.
ESPN adds that the Premier League club have made contact as they assess the possibility of bringing the highly-rated defender to the City Ground, where he is viewed as a player with enormous long-term potential.
They also have their eyes on Zimbabwe winger Tadiwa Chakuchichi, but any agreement for Mbokazi is unlikely to be straightforward.
Chicago Fire only signed Mbokazi this year and remain under no pressure to sell, while his outstanding performances for South Africa have significantly increased interest from clubs across Europe.
His representatives have also confirmed that enquiries have been received, although formal written offers have yet to materialise.
Forest have developed a reputation for identifying promising talent before values explode, and Mbokazi appears to fit that profile.
If Glasner’s side can win the race, they may be signing one of African football’s brightest defensive prospects before the rest of Europe fully catches up.
