Kaizer Chiefs miss out as Tshegofatso Mabasa joins Moroccan champions MAS Fes

Tshegofatso Mabasa has chosen a move to Moroccan side MAS Fes after Kaizer Chiefs failed to make a formal offer for the former Orlando Pirates striker.

Mabasa became a free agent at the beginning of July when his contract with Orlando Pirates expired. The 29-year-old had been widely expected to attract interest from Kaizer Chiefs, particularly after establishing himself as one of the more experienced available forwards in South African football.

However, discussions between Chiefs and Mabasa’s representatives did not lead to a deal. Talks took place towards the end of the 2025/26 season and continued into the early part of the off-season, but the club did not follow up with an official proposal.

Mabasa’s representatives had initially held exploratory discussions with Kaizer Chiefs. According to information received by KickOff.com, responsibility for progressing the negotiations then rested with Amakhosi. A source close to the player indicated that the expected offer never arrived, leaving Mabasa’s camp unable to wait indefinitely while considering other opportunities.

The striker eventually accepted a lucrative three-year contract from MAS Fes, who are the reigning champions of Morocco’s Botola Pro. The club will also compete in this season’s CAF Champions League.

Mabasa’s departure from Orlando Pirates follows a breakdown in negotiations over a contract extension. The two parties had been unable to agree terms as early as the start of the 2025/26 campaign, despite his contribution to the club. The disagreement affected his position in the squad, and he subsequently fell out of favour before joining Stellenbosch on loan in January 2026.

The Botshabelo-born forward, who previously played for Bloemfontein Celtic, has scored 74 goals in all competitions in the PSL. His record and availability on a free transfer made him an attractive target for Kaizer Chiefs, who have recently recruited several established players without paying transfer fees.

Mabasa also received enquiries from clubs outside South Africa before deciding on a move to Morocco. KickOff.com understands that he was offered to Mamelodi Sundowns as well, but The Brazilians did not do enough to secure his services or bring him to Chloorkop.

Kaizer Chiefs’ failure to act decisively allowed MAS Fes to take advantage of the situation and present an offer that Mabasa’s camp considered too strong to reject. The Moroccan champions’ involvement in the CAF Champions League also provides the forward with the opportunity to continue his career at continental level.

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