Orlando Pirates Star Could Link Up With Sadio Mane and Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia

• Saudi Arabian football has exploded onto the world stage in recent years with their signings of world superstars
• Tshegofatso Mabasa has attracted interest from abroad thanks to his performances for Orlando Pirates in the league
• Orlando Pirates are preparing to have to fend off offers from Europe and Saudi Arabia for their talented attacker

When Saudi Arabia calls, it’s tough to say no.

Orlando Pirates could soon have their resolve tested by the wealthy nation as one of their attackers continues to attract interest from abroad.

As noted by Soccer Laduma, the Sea Robbers are preparing themselves for bids for Tshegofatso Mabasa.

The 27-year-old striker has grabbed headlines this season with his performances and now has clubs in Saudi Arabia monitoring his situation.

Teboho Mokoena and 4 other South African players linked with a move to European leagues

Football

“Given Mabasa’s rich goal-scoring form this season, it is no surprise that he is the subject of widespread interest, particularly from Saudi Arabia. According to well-placed Siya sources, enquiries have been pouring in for the striker from the Gulf Region and a few leagues in Europe,” the publication noted.

They added that the next few weeks could be crucial in deciding the future of the centre-forward.

Why Mabasa is in hot demand

The Buccaneers star has hit a rich vein of form for the Nedbank Cup champions, scoring with ease for both Moroka Swallows and Pirates.

The attacker was on loan at the Dube Birds, where he scored six goals before the MTN8 winners recalled him.

He then scored a further 10 goals for Jose Riveiro’s men in the league to be crowned the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot winner.

Orlando Pirates Striker Tshegofatso Mabasa Breaks Silence After Bafana Bafana Snub

Football

In total, he has scored 19 goals in all competitions this season.

European interest in Mabasa

It’s not just the Saudis who are monitoring Mabasa; he has also attracted interest from Europe.

As noted by The Citizen, Romanian outfit FCSB were keeping close tabs on him. Former Kaizer Chiefs star Siyabonga Ngezana also plays for the team.

The Romanian champions are now believed to have withdrawn their interest in the player.

Bafana boss Broos explains Mabasa snub

Despite his success for the Sea Robbers, Mabasa did not earn a call-up to the national team for the World Cup qualifiers.

Recently, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos explained why he chose not to select the 27-year-old for the upcoming games.

Broos explained that he had to choose between Mabasa and Iqraam Rayners, and chose the Stellenbosch star, Sports Brief reported.