Basia Michaels, the agent for Chicago Fire's 20-year-old South African defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, has spoken about the transfer speculation concerning the player. Michaels confirmed he has heard about interest from Nottingham Forest and Brentford but is waiting for something more concrete, and stated that mere rumors can have a psychological impact. He revealed that there is also interest from clubs in Belgium, Germany, and Italy. The agent highlighted that Napoli is following Mbokazi with close attention but clarified that he has not personally had any contact with the sporting director of the Italian club. Michaels added that Chicago Fire is willing to sell the player for a suitable offer from the right club, and that Mbokazi himself feels ready for a new experience and is attracted by the prospect of playing in Italy. Mbokazi has 14 caps and 1 goal for South Africa. He joined Chicago Fire in January 2026 for a reported fee of €2.5 million and has a contract until the end of 2029. He has made 12 appearances in Major League Soccer this season, and his current Transfermarkt market value is €3.50m.