SuperSport lining up European move for Maseko, but agent in the dark

By Mazola Molefe
10th May 2023

Despite rejecting an offer from Belgian topflight side KV Westerlo for attacker Thapelo Maseko last month, SuperSport United will still line up a possible move to Europe for the junior international.

CEO Stan Matthews has confirmed the 19-year-old will be part of the reserve league squad travelling abroad around July as a reward for winning the DStv Diski Challenge this season, and Maseko is expected to stay behind for trials in England with an unnamed club.

But when contacted by SABC Sport, the player’s agent denied any knowledge of the arrangement between SuperSport and any other team overseas.

Lance Davids was the first to reveal to the public broadcaster there was an offer from Westerlo for Maseko, which was turned down by their Premier Soccer League counterparts, arguing it was too low.

Matthews, however, appears to be looking elsewhere.

“We don’t feel that we just need to jump at the first offer that comes along. But for sure Maseko will go overseas with the Diski Challenge to participate in the international tournament to get exposure at that level and then stay on for a trial with a big club in Europe. That’s lined up for him in July,” the SuperSport boss explained.

“The Westerlo offer you can put one side, there will be European clubs coming for Thapelo Maseko and at some point in time, whether it’s’ a fantastic club like Westerlo whom we are not averse to doing a deal with at the right level…but we know what they sold Lyle Foster for [over R131-million to Burnley]. We have a good estimate of Thapelo Maseko’s value. It’s a pity we just don’t have enough time and we are now under pressure from clubs both locally and overseas.”

Davids suggested news of a trial in England comes as a surprise.

“We brought an offer and it was rejected, but my understanding is that talks continue regarding the Westerlo offer. As for the trial, you are asking me about, this is the first time I am hearing about it.

“Why would you want a player to go on trial when there’s already an offer, where the club wants him in immediately?

“Yes they are going to England, but Thapelo will not fit the criteria for the rules in the UK. But I hope SuperSport can fulfil the boy’s dream to go to Europe,” the former Bafana Bafana international told SABC Sport.