Orlando Pirates secure forward and plan new deal for another star.
Pirates have taken decisive action to secure their top striker, Tshegofatso Mabasa. With his contract set to expire in June, the Buccaneers have exercised a two-year extension option, ensuring he remains at the club until at least June 2027.
Sources close to the player and the club confirm that Pirates moved swiftly to keep their prolific forward in their ranks.
“As we speak now, his contract will run until June 2027. The club has already exercised the two years on his contract. It’s not a direct extension or a new contract. For now, they have taken up the option they had on the player, and that’s within their rights to do so. His previous contract was coming to an end in June this year,” a source revealed.
Pirates strengthen their striking force
Pirates are not stopping with Mabasa’s contract extension. The club is determined to keep its attacking trio of Mabasa, Evidence Makgopa, and Zakhele Lepasa while scouting for additional reinforcements ahead of the next season.
“What they want to do is try and keep Mabasa, Evidence Makgopa, and Zakhele Lepasa, but they are not ruling out bringing in another striker next season. They have already identified some of the strikers they are targeting,” the source added.
Mabasa proved his goal-scoring prowess last season by winning the Golden Boot while playing for both Moroka Swallows (on loan) and Pirates. However, his goal tally this season has dipped as head coach Jose Riveiro has rotated attacking options, leading to a more evenly distributed goal contribution across the squad.
Makgopa set for improved contract
In addition to Mabasa’s extension, Pirates are also working on a new contract for Evidence Makgopa. The club wants to reward the 24-year-old striker for his consistent performances over the last two seasons.
Makgopa, who joined Pirates from Baroka in 2022, struggled with injuries in his first season but has since bounced back. Over the past season and a half, he has tallied 13 goals and four assists in 58 games, often rotating with Mabasa in Riveiro’s setup.
His impressive form also earned him a regular place in the South African national team under Hugo Broos. His performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations have drawn interest from European clubs, but Pirates want to secure his future with an improved deal before the current season ends.
What’s next for the Pirates?
With Mabasa’s contract locked in and Makgopa in line for a new deal, Pirates are making bold moves to reinforce their attacking department. The question remains, will they bring in another striker next season to further bolster their squad?
Stay tuned with The South African as Orlando Pirates secure forward and plan new deal for another star.
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