Kaizer Chiefs join race for unwanted Orlando Pirates star

Published on 21 May 2026 at 16:23 by Joel Oliver

Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has become a prime target for several top PSL clubs, including Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu, as uncertainty looms over his future with the Soweto giants.

The 29-year-old is currently on loan at Stellenbosch FC, a move he made in January to secure more playing time. With his loan agreement in the Cape Winelands concluding at the end of the season, he is scheduled to return to his parent club, the Buccaneers.

However, Pirates have yet to comment on their plans for the striker. Sources suggest that no new contract extension has been agreed upon, and his current deal is set to expire on June 30.

Stellies keen to keep Pirates forward

Tshegofatso Mabasa is currently on loan at Stellenbosch. Photo: Stellies

Mabasa’s initial loan to Stellies was reportedly prompted by both a lack of minutes on the field and the stalled contract negotiations, signaling that his time with the Soweto giants may be coming to an end.

With the season drawing to a close, it is understood that the highly-rated forward is already weighing his options for the upcoming campaign. Insiders have stated that Stellenbosch are keen to make his move permanent, with coach Gavin Hunt being a notable admirer of the player’s abilities.

“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 told KickOff. “He is moving on and currently exploring options. Stellenbosch want to keep him.”

Kaizer Chiefs join race for Mabasa

Tshegofatso Mabasa celebrats. Photo: Orlando Pirates

Despite Stellenbosch’s strong interest, they face stiff competition. The source confirmed that both AmaZulu and Kaizer Chiefs have expressed serious intent to sign Mabasa.

Adding another layer to the transfer saga, a potential move abroad cannot be dismissed. Another source has indicated that Al Ittihad in Libya, managed by former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena, could be a possible destination.

Mokwena is said to hold the former Bloemfontein Celtic striker in high regard and may be considering bringing him to the Libyan club.

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.