Chiefs enter race for Mabasa amid Pirates uncertainty

With his future at Orlando Pirates uncertain, striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has emerged as a wanted man in the PSL, with one big club understood to be amongst those monitoring his situation.

The 29-year-old is currently on loan at Stellenbosch FC after joining the Cape Winelands outfit in January following limited game time at the Soweto giants.

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His loan spell with the Gavin Hunt-led side is set to expire at the end of the season, meaning he will return to his parent club, the Buccaneers.

However, Pirates have remained quiet on what the future holds for the striker, with sources indicating there is still no agreement in place regarding a contract extension.

Mabasa's move to Stellies was reportedly influenced not only by a lack of minutes on the pitch, but also by the absence of an agreement over a new contract with Pirates.

Furthermore, his loan switch could be viewed as a sign that his long-term future with the one-time CAF Champions League winners is nearing its end, with his current deal set to expire on June 30.

With just one game remaining this season, KickOff.com has learned that the highly-rated striker has already begun exploring his options ahead of the next campaign.

Sources close to the player indicate that Stellenbosch are eager to retain Mabasa on a permanent basis, with Hunt believed to be a strong admirer of the forward.

"Mabasa is a Pirates player until 30 June 2026, but it is a given that he is unlikely to return beyond this season," a source close to the situation said.

"He is moving on and currently exploring options. Stellenbosch want to keep him."

The insider said despite Stellenbosch's strong desire to keep him, other clubs, which include AmaZulu and Kaizer Chiefs, have shown serious interest in signing Mabasa.

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Moreover, another source has also claimed that a possible move to Rulani Mokwena's Al Ittihad in Libya should not be ruled out.

It is believed the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach is also considering the possibility of signing the former Bloemfontein Celtic striker, whom he highly rates.