Hunt for a wunderkind in South Africa: Orlando Pirates tried to hijack Cape Town City's young star

Cape Town City chairman John Comitis has confirmed that talks were held with Orlando Pirates over a possible move for young talent Emil Witbooi.

Details: According to sports publication afrik-foot, the Soweto giants' interest in the 18-year-old attacking midfielder grew sharply during the transfer window following the departure of one of their attacking leaders. The Pirates' management were actively searching for a replacement for Relebohile Mofokeng, who moved to Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, and viewed the Cape Town academy graduate as the ideal candidate to become the team's new creative playmaker.

The Cape Town club's bosses confirmed concrete interest from their direct league rivals but were unwilling to rush into selling the rising star. The club believes that gradual progress with the Citizens will benefit the player more, allowing him to eventually attract direct offers from European leagues.

It is worth noting that Emil Witbooi is regarded as one of the brightest representatives of South Africa's new generation of footballers. The attacking midfielder is regularly called up to the country's youth national teams, while his outstanding technique, dribbling ability and football intelligence have already caught the attention of scouting departments at leading clubs across the African continent.

Reminder: Orlando Pirates' Simphiwe Masilela is the next best player to come out of South Africa