Thalente Mbatha, a midfielder for the Pirates and Bafana, is reportedly wanted in England, via SoccerLaduma.
“It all began when they returned from Spain for the preseason. Initially, three teams expressed interest in him; however, at this time, I can only reveal that the primary team is from the Championship. Some have even asked questions about him, and they may follow up soon. And since it would improve his chances, it may work out extremely well for him if the national team coach chooses him for the Bafana squad. Indeed, it’s the English side, but I’m not allowed to reveal the club just yet,” the Siya source stated.
Not only has Mbatha drawn interest, but Golden Boot winner Tshegofatso Mabasa has as well. This season, however, the pirates are fighting on several fronts, and it would take very attractive offers to persuade them to part with two of their most valuable assets. Mabasa may potentially fetch up to R30 million.
“As you can see, the club is not yet prepared to sell or release Mbatha and Tshegofatso (Mabasa). They are an integral part of the team’s future, and the management and technical staff want them to be a part of the group as they compete for league titles and go further in the CAF Champions League. Therefore, while I can confirm that there is interest,
Right now, Jose Riveiro’s team is quite busy. In between the MTN8 semifinals, they had to settle a two-leg CAF Champions League qualifier against Jwaneng Galaxy; they drew 1-1 with Cape Town City in the first leg, and they play again on Saturday, August 31, at Orlando Stadium. Because of the overwhelming number of games scheduled, the Bucs’ opening game has been rescheduled for September 14, the day the new Betway Premiership season begins. against September 24, they take against Polokwane at home in the first round of the league.
