MAS Fes eye Thembinkosi Lorch as third South African signing

Moroccan champions MAS Fes are reportedly interested in signing South African midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch as they look to further strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.

The Botola Pro League champions have already added South African talent to their ranks this summer, with former Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa and former Stellenbosch FC attacker Devin Titus both joining the club.

Lorch could become the third South African in the squad if MAS Fes can reach an agreement with his current club, Libyan side Al Ittihad SC.

The experienced midfielder remains under contract with the Libyan outfit, meaning MAS Fes would have to negotiate a transfer before they can secure his services.

A move to Morocco would also represent a return to familiar territory for Lorch, who previously spent time in the country with Wydad Casablanca.

The 33-year-old enjoyed a spell with the Moroccan giants two seasons ago, giving him valuable experience of the country’s football environment and the demands of playing in North Africa.

His potential return would underline the growing appeal of the Moroccan league for South African players, with MAS Fes already assembling a squad featuring several players from the Betway Premiership.

Despite being in the latter stages of his playing career, Lorch continues to attract interest from clubs in North Africa, a testament to the experience and quality he has accumulated over the years.

His previous stint with Wydad also means he would not be entering unfamiliar territory should the MAS Fes move materialise.

For MAS Fes, Lorch’s experience could prove valuable as they prepare for a demanding campaign. The midfielder would bring familiarity with African football at the highest level, as well as knowledge of the Moroccan game.

The club’s interest in the South African also highlights its ambition to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.

With Mabasa and Titus already on the books, the potential arrival of Lorch would create a strong South African presence within the Moroccan champions’ dressing room.

However, the move remains dependent on negotiations with Al Ittihad SC and whether the two clubs can reach an agreement over the player’s transfer.

If the deal is completed, Lorch would embark on his second Moroccan adventure and add another chapter to an increasingly interesting career in North African football.