Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa is attracting interest from Libyan giants Al-Ittihad SC in what could be a reunion with highly-rated South African coach Rulani Mokwena, FARPost has learnt.
The talented forward is facing an uncertain future with Pirates as the Soweto giants look set to allow him to leave as a free agent when his contract expires next month.
Mabasa, who is currently on loan at Stellenbosch FC, having signed with the club in the January transfer window, is left with a few weeks on his contract at Pirates that will expire on the 30th of June.
The Sea Robbers have not made any contact with Mabasa and his representatives over a possible renewal of the contract. As a result, the Bafana Bafana international will be exploring other options elsewhere at the end of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season.
In the current campaign, Mabasa has struggled for regular game-time at Pirates under the leadership of Abdeslam Ouaddou, who prefers Evidence Makgopa and Yanela Mbuthuma to lead the striking force.
The former Bloemfontein Celtic star was closing in on the club’s all-time top goal scorer record, which is currently held by Benedict ‘Tso’ Vilakazi, who has 58 goals, while Mabasa is on 50 goals.
RULANI MOKWENA AND TSHEGOFATSO MABASA’S REUNION ON THE CARDS?
With the 29-year-old set for a new career adventure in the next season, Al-Ittihad has emerged as a possible destination for Mabasa, with Rulani Mokwena spearheading the interest in the services of the goal poacher.
A few seasons ago, the 39-year-old mentor attempted to sign Mabasa during his time at Mamelodi Sundowns, but the move could not materialise. The duo has worked together during their days at Pirates between 2017 and 2020.
A source close to the information has told FARPost that Mabasa has attracted big interest from Al-Ittihad. The team has another South African, Thembinkosi Lorch, in its books.
“I think by now everyone knows that Pirates has not shown any interest in keeping Mabasa at the club, and I can tell you there is a lot of interest in the player. Rulani Mokwena’s Al-Ittihad is one of those teams that are really interested in signing him,” a source told this publication.
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