The rumours won’t go away.
Orlando Pirates might be receiving offers for Tshegofatso Mabasa after his Nedbank Cup final snub on Saturday.
Mabasa rumours intensify after Nedbank Cup final omission
Jose Riveiro took a gamble by starting Evidence Makgopa against Sundowns in favour of DStv Premiership Golden Boot winner Tshegofatso Mabasa but that risk paid off. Makgopa was a constant nuisance for the Sundowns defence, often winning the ball back high up the pitch to help his side spring the counter-press. Mabasa’s time at Pirates is certainly not over because of this, but it illustrated the club’s depth. The 27-year-old striker scored 16 goals in the league. He also got three goals and two assists in five appearances en route to Nedbank Cup glory. Spanish boss Riveiro has now won four domestic cups at the helm. The focus for next season will be progress in the CAF Champions League and closing the gap to Sundowns in the league.
Orlando Pirates Mabasa
Tshegofatso Mabasa against Crystal Lake at the Mbombela Stadium in the Nedbank Cup. Image: BackpagePix
Buyout clause at Orlando Pirates to protect Mabasa’s value
As the most lethal marksman in the country, Tshegofatdso Mabasa’s transfer value should reflect that. According to SoccerLaduma, the Orlando Pirates board are in advanced negotiations with Tshegofatso Mabasa to extend his stay with the club until June 2028. This is a reward for his stellar form in 2023/2024, where he scored 16 goals in the league to win the Golden Boot award. According to the publication’s sources, Pirates will trigger a two-year option, including a hefty R50 million buyout clause. That clause applies to local and foreign clubs, so if Mabasa is on their shopping list, they’ll have to cough up considerable cash, and it might price PSL clubs out of a potential deal. Are Pirates priming Mabasa for a move to Europe or further afield?
“All parties involved are happy about the upcoming new deal. Yes, it’s an improved contract because the player has proved himself as the best striker in the league, warranting an enhanced deal,” the source added.
Orlando Pirates
If Mabasa stays alongside Makgopa, do Pirates have the best strikeforce in the land?
