It’s a signal of intent from the club, led by savvy owner and businessman John Comitis as this suggests City have no desire – for now – to let the player go.

But if they do sell then his suitor would have to offer a substantial figure for Mayo’s services given the latest developments.

Mayo has been on the radar of several DStv Premiership rivals in Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs and even some reports linking him with an interest from Tanzanian giants Young Africans.

SABC Sport reported late last month that City had initially triggered the two-year option on Mayo’s contract with talk in the football fraternity that Sundowns were ready to lure him to Chloorkop.

To guarantee the forward, who has finished the season as joint top goal scorer alongside Downs’ Peter Shalulile with 12, did not leave on a free transfer City exercised their right to hold on to Mayo for another two years.

It’s now understood the club has since tabled a brand new offer, which, now that it’s been signed, means Mayo is under contract until June 2028.

Asked for comment, the striker’s agent said it was no secret how big of an asset the 24-year-old is to City.

“They have exercised his option I don’t think that’s news to anyone, with his performances I would believe that City are keen to keep him past the option. Mr. Comitis isn’t successful by mistake,” said Basia Michaels.

“We would definitely need to look at the market and what it has to offer in this window and should something not happen I would expect nothing less from him than to want to extend Khanyisa’s stay, especially considering he is happy at City. He is playing great football, scoring regularly and he is now the league’s top goal scorer. I do expect to see him back with Bafana.”

Michaels didn’t want to entertain the rumour mill that Mayo could leave the club if the right offer – for all parties involved – comes along.

“He has a lot of transfer speculation but it’s also very important to keep him mindful of where he currently is and congratulate him for what he is currently doing, it’s no small task at all,” the agent added.

Finished Ireland in Zimbabwe ODI Series