English Club Sets Sights on Orlando Pirates’ Leading Striker
- Sunderland have expressed interest in Orlando Pirates' top striker, Tshegofatso Mabasa, after a successful scouting mission
- Mabasa, who finished as the PSL's top scorer with 16 goals last season, has drawn attention from international clubs
- Mabasa's lack of regular Bafana Bafana appearances could pose a hurdle to his potential move as it could affect his ability to secure a UK work permit
Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa could be heading for an overseas switch, with English Championship giants Sunderland reportedly monitoring the prolific forward.
Sources close to both the player and the club have confirmed that the 28-year-old has become a serious transfer target.
Source: Instagram
Scouts Spot a Gem While Tracking Another
Interestingly, Sunderland’s interest in Mabasa wasn’t premeditated.
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Scouts were originally in South Africa to assess Thalente Mbatha, another Pirates player on their radar.
However, Mabasa's performance caught their attention during the same trip.
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It’s the same club that had been following Mbatha. When their scouts came to watch him, they were impressed with Mabasa too. They’ve since followed up with enquiries,” a source revealed.
Work Permit Hurdle Looms Over Potential Move
Despite the growing interest, a UK work permit may pose a significant obstacle for Mabasa.
Current immigration requirements dictate that foreign players must obtain an International Sportsperson visa, which hinges on receiving a Governing Body Endorsement from The FA.
This typically requires a steady stream of national team appearances, something Mabasa lacks, having only two caps for Bafana Bafana.
The interest is real. Sunderland have made contact, but the work permit issue might stand in the way. Without more national team experience, qualifying will be tough,” the insider added.
Mabasa’s Goal-Scoring Prowess Still Makes Headlines
Regardless of bureaucratic challenges, Mabasa’s stats speak for themselves.
He finished the previous DStv Premiership season as the league's top scorer with 16 goals and has already notched five in the current campaign.
At 28, Mabasa is in the prime of his career, combining sharp movement, strong finishing, and a knack for finding space.
It’s no surprise his name is circulating in European scouting circles, particularly for clubs like Sunderland seeking an attacking boost.
Source: Facebook
Transfer Window Could Reshape Pirates’ Attack
If Sunderland do make an official offer and find a way around the permit complications, Pirates could face a major reshuffle upfront.
Losing Mabasa would be a blow, but it also signals the growing global recognition of South African talent. With interest growing and the transfer window fast approaching, all eyes will be on Mabasa’s next move.
Impact on Pirates' squad should Mabasa leave
Should Tshegofatso Mabasa complete a transfer to Sunderland, Orlando Pirates would face the challenge of filling a significant gap in their attacking lineup.
Mabasa has been a pivotal component of the team, and his exit would require an immediate replacement. In December 2024, Pirates were linked with strikers such as Denis Kibu of Simba SC, Muzomuhle Khanyi of Hungry Lions and Lungelo Nguse of Golden Arrows. They may consider any of these players should Mabasa leave.
Historical transfers from Pirates to European clubs
Historically, Orlando Pirates have seen several players transition to European clubs, with mixed outcomes.
For instance, Kermit Erasmus joined French side Rennes in 2016 but faced challenges securing regular playing time, prompting a series of moves across Europe before his eventual return to South Africa.
Mbulelo Mabizela’s 2003 transfer to Tottenham Hotspur began promisingly with a debut goal, though his stint was curtailed by off-field issues. In contrast, Andile Jali’s move to K.V. Oostende in Belgium in 2014 offered a more consistent spell abroad before he returned to the South African league.
Mamelodi Sundowns Midfielder Themba Zwane Faces Uncertain Future Amid Contract Talks Pause
Briefly News previously reported that Mamelodi Sundowns have put contract negotiations with star midfielder Themba Zwane on hold due to fitness concerns.
Zwane, who has been sidelined with an Achilles injury since October, is resuming training but must prove his fitness before any decisions are made regarding his future at the club.
Sundowns are prioritising his full recovery and performance before committing to a new contract, as they prepare for the final stretch of the season, including crucial CAF Champions League and Nedbank Cup matches. Nomso Obiajuru was a contributing writer in this article
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Source: Briefly News
