Transfer News: Chiefs, Sundowns Chase Orlando Pirates Goal Machine
A familiar Soweto transfer saga is quietly gathering pace — and this time, it could see Orlando Pirates reluctantly open the door for one of their most reliable finishers.
Tshegofatso Mabasa, once viewed as a long-term striking pillar at Pirates, has slipped down the pecking order under Abdeslam Ouaddou, sparking growing interest from both Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns as the January window approaches.
From talisman to fringe figure
Despite returning respectable numbers — four goals and one assist in nine appearances this season — Mabasa has been reduced to a rotational role, with Ouaddou favouring Evidence Makgopa and Yanela Mbuthuma, while reserve striker Sifiso Luthuli has suddenly emerged as the coach’s new project.
The situation has left the 29-year-old increasingly frustrated, particularly with his contract nearing its final months and little indication that his role will expand.
Insiders suggest Mabasa no longer sees a clear future at Mayfair — a reality that has alerted rival heavyweights.
Chiefs’ long game
According to SoccerBeat analyst Peter du Toit, Kaizer Chiefs have already made contact with Mabasa’s representatives, despite public denials.
Chiefs are not expected to move in January, but the plan is strategic: secure Mabasa on a free transfer ahead of next season as part of a wider attacking overhaul.
“They won’t sign him this window,” Du Toit revealed. “But they want him. He will replace two strikers — and two will leave.”
For Chiefs, Mabasa represents a proven PSL scorer entering his prime, something Naturena have struggled to secure consistently in recent seasons.
Sundowns’ quiet interest
Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns are also monitoring the situation closely.
With Peter Shalulile approaching his mid-30s, Lebo Mothiba battling injuries, and uncertainty surrounding Iqraam Rayners’ long-term availability, Downs are planning ahead — and Mabasa fits their age and experience profile.
“There have been talks with the agent,” Du Toit added. “Sundowns have always liked the player.”
In a squad built on ruthless depth, Mabasa could offer reliable domestic goals and rotation across competitions.
Pirates’ dilemma: record or rebuild?
Mabasa’s situation presents Pirates with an uncomfortable decision.
Since joining from Bloemfontein Celtic in 2019, he has scored 50 goals in 141 appearances, placing him just two goals short of Benedict ‘Tso’ Vilakazi’s all-time club record.
Yet Ouaddou’s comments suggest the striker no longer fits his tactical blueprint.
“He is efficient in the box,” Ouaddou admitted. “But we expect more in terms of pressing.”
Instead, the coach has publicly backed Luthuli, signalling a shift toward younger, more mobile options.
January shake-up looming
With Pirates also close to announcing Andre De Jong from Stellenbosch FC — a move that further complicates matters for fringe attackers like Sinoxolo Kwayiba — exits are becoming inevitable.
Mabasa, now effectively fourth-choice, faces a crossroads: wait for opportunities that may never come, or accept a fresh start — possibly with one of Pirates’ fiercest rivals.
As the transfer window opens on 1 January 2026, one thing is clear:
the battle for Mabasa may not just be about goals — it could reshape the PSL power balance.