Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa could leave the Soweto giants as he is in talks with a European club, FCSB. According to a local publication, Mabasa’s agent Gary Cassisa has confirmed that the free-scoring forward is locked in negotiations with the Romanian outfit.
Currently having former Kaizer Chiefs defender, Siyabonga Ngezana in their books, FCSB is now looking to lure Mabasa away from Soweto. Phakaaathi reports that the side previously known as Steaua București is keen to sign the former Bloemfontein Celtic star.
Related: Angry Sundowns Boss Mokwena Hits Back At Tunisian Media
Pirates to Lose Mabasa to the European Side?
The 27-year-old has been in fine form for Pirates and has eight strikes on the goalscorer’s charts across all competitions since returning in January from a loan spell at Moroka Swallows.
“At this point, his decision has to be considerate of his future as a player considering his age. Sundowns have the financial muscles to get him. But a chance at playing in the Champions League is not easy to resist,” said Cassisa to the publication.
“FSCB want him. They are on top in the Super Liga and are likely to be playing in the UEFA Champions League. At the moment, I’m also talking to other clubs in Europe. But the idea is to help him keep his calm until the season is over.”
Meanwhile, Sport Plus understands that Mamelodi Sundowns were keen to sign Mabasa during the January transfer window but that deal failed to materialise. Now Cassisa says the Brazilians are facing stiff competition from European clubs, including Ngezana’s FCSB, for the Bafana Bafana striker’s signature.
Related: Kaizer Chiefs Review: Shambolic Amakhosi Suffer Loss In KZN
Moreover, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is also happy that Mabasa is now competing for the DStv Premiership Goalscorer Award. He has eleven goals with Sundowns’ star Lucas Ribeiro and the Spaniard is delighted.
Riveiro: Mabasa an Important Puzzle Piece for Pirates
The reigning Nedbank Cup and MTN8 winner with Pirates, Riveiro praised Mabasa for his contribution since his return from the Dube Birds. On top of that, Riveiro also seems to be content and ready to lose Mabasa whose future is a subject of speculation with Pirates.
“Like I have said so many times before, he is one piece in our structure, a very important one right now. I’m happy when the players, especially the forwards are delivering goals,” said Riveiro.
“I’m happy when the forwards are delivering goals, but especially taking responsibility in the last metres.
“He is constantly offering us the options for other players that are playing around him, to be aggressive in our pressing for the defenders when we don’t have the ball. So, he is contributing to the role that…is assigned to the number nine position and so far he is doing well. It’s normal for professional football players to keep one eye on their futures and try to deliver. We understand that everyone is thinking about their futures and their careers, of which it’s also good for the team (because the team also benefits).”
With six games and some contracts set to expire at the end of the season, several Pirates players have raised their games to earn new deals and Riveiro says it is normal for players to do that, not only the Pirates players.
Related: Pirates vs AmaZulu Review: Bucs Claim Spoils In Round Two