Mabasa closes in on new club after Kaizer Chiefs talks collapse

Tshegofatso Mabasa says he expects to seal a move to a new club next week after confirming that talks with Kaizer Chiefs broke down following his exit from Orlando Pirates.

The 27-year-old striker, who is currently a free agent, has been training alone to maintain fitness after leaving Pirates at the end of last season, with Kaizer Chiefs strongly linked with a move for the forward.

However, Mabasa has now revealed that discussions with the Soweto giants did not progress to a formal offer and that he is instead close to agreeing a deal elsewhere.

“About Chiefs, there was a bit of back-and-forth, but there was nothing concrete from their side,” Mabasa, known as “Sniper”, told KickOff.

Chiefs links fade as new move nears

Mabasa’s future has been the subject of intense speculation since Orlando Pirates confirmed his departure, with reports suggesting Amakhosi had joined the chase for his signature amid uncertainty over his role at the Buccaneers.

Despite those links, the former Pirates forward indicated that a move to Naturena is no longer on the table and that his next destination is likely to be confirmed in a matter of days.

“I’m still in Jozi. I’m training with Zakhele Lepasa. You will soon find out where I’m going. I think by next week I will finalise everything,” he said.

“It’s a matter of ironing out finer details,” he added, underlining his enthusiasm about the impending transfer.

Staying sharp after Pirates exit

Mabasa is currently without a club following his release by Orlando Pirates, for whom he struggled to secure a consistent starting place before being allowed to leave.

In a bid to maintain his sharpness, the left-footed striker has continued to work on his fitness in Johannesburg, training alongside Orlando Pirates forward Zakhele Lepasa as he waits for his next move to be confirmed.

The forward spent the second half of last season on loan at Stellenbosch FC, where he scored four goals in 12 DStv Premiership appearances, reminding potential suitors of his finishing ability.

New challenge ‘good for my career’

While Mabasa declined to name the club he is close to joining, he made it clear that the decision has been driven by his long-term ambitions and a desire for a fresh environment.

“It’s a good opportunity, it’s a different environment, it provides me with a chance to grow. It’s a decision based on my career. It’s good for my career that I move to this new club,” he said.

Mabasa’s next destination remains undisclosed, but with negotiations said to be at an advanced stage, confirmation of his new team is expected shortly as he looks to relaunch his career away from both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.