Tshegofatso Mabasa keen on bids as Orlando Pirates contract winds down

Mabasa is currently on loan at Stellenbosch FC from Orlando Pirates, having joined the Winelands outfit in January for the remainder of the season. 

While Stellies are understood to have first option to secure his services on a permanent deal, indications are the forward is willing to explore other opportunities as he looks to settle his long-term future.

The 29-year-old joined Pirates in 2019 from the now-defunct Bloemfontein Celtic and has endured an inconsistent spell with the Soweto giants – even with his impressive goal scoring record at the club.  

Despite finishing as The Buccaneers’ top scorer with 16 league goals two seasons ago, Mabasa struggled to cement a regular place in the starting line-up.

Limited game time under current coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who replaced the successful Jose Riviero, at the start of the campaign prompted the decision to send him out on loan, with Stellenbosch providing a fresh platform.

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Discussions between Mabasa, his representatives and Stellies are ongoing but no agreement has been finalised according to insiders. 

It is, however, increasingly unlikely that he will renew his contract with Pirates when his existing deal expires – meaning Mabasa is free to sign a pre-contract with a club of his choice ahead of the 2026/27 season. 

Pirates are believed to have made attempts in the past to extend his stay but a lack of consistent minutes, coupled with differing views on his future and increased competition following the arrivals of players such as Andre de Jong and Yanela Mbuthuma, have contributed to his desire to look elsewhere. 

It remains to be seen which Betway Premiership club will move to secure his signature and his record suggests Mabasa will not be short of suitors.