Cape Town - Orlando Pirates midfielder Vincent Pule says if Thembinkosi Lorch moves to Europe it would be like losing a family member.
Lorch is reportedly a major target for French Ligue One outfit Toulouse after his star performances for Pirates as well as Bafana Bafana.
As such, it appears the natural next stage of his career will be on a bigger European stage in the future.
With that said, Pule says he will miss the 26-year-old if he does leave the Sea Robbers.
Speaking to reporters, he said: "For me, personally, I think if we lose him, like we lost Khuzwayo to retirement, we would have lost not just a player but a brother.
"But, for him personally, it will be something great for him to go overseas."
Commenting on the 2019/20 season ahead, he added: "As a team, we have to start playing for the team and playing like a team.
"Individually these things happen that you're going to outclass some others."
In summarizing Lorch's overall contribution, he concluded: "I think he's done fantastically well, he was unbelievable last season - pressing, scoring goals and assisting - he was just unbelievable.
"Even we were doing that, but we were not doing enough. I think this season we have to do better to help him and to carry the team."