Chiefs interested, Raja lurking – but Sundowns lead Mabasa chase
Tshegofatso Mabasa’s future at Orlando Pirates appears to be nearing a decisive turning point, with one heavyweight club now emerging as the clear frontrunner for his signature.
The 29-year-old striker is entering the final six months of his contract, meaning he can legally negotiate a pre-contract agreement from January 1. Limited game time under Abdeslam Ouaddou has only fuelled speculation that his stay in black and white is coming to an end.
While Kaizer Chiefs and Moroccan powerhouse Raja Casablanca have both made enquiries, it is Mamelodi Sundowns who are believed to be pushing hardest. Sources suggest the Brazilians are ready to move decisively to lure Mabasa to Chloorkop, convinced his penalty-box instincts could add another dimension to their already formidable attack.
Mabasa’s omission from the Carling Cup squad against the All-Stars on Saturday further underlined his uncertain standing at Pirates, with Ouaddou opting instead for Sfiso Luthuli and Boitumelo Radiopane off the bench. Although the coach has publicly insisted the striker remains part of his plans, insiders paint a different picture.
“Everything points to Mabasa leaving,” a source close to the club revealed. “January is about finding a move, otherwise he waits until June.”
Pirates have already moved to bolster their frontline with the signing of Andre de Jong from Stellenbosch FC, a step seen as preparation for life without Mabasa.
Sundowns declined to comment on the reports, but as things stand, they appear to be leading the race for a striker whose Pirates chapter may already be closed.