Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs were reportedly discussing a deal for left-back Terrence Mashego, but negotiations stalled due to a disagreement, the Siya crew investigates.
Insiders close to both clubs and the player indicated that while the Brazilians were open to selling Mashego to Chiefs, the deal fell apart when Amakhosi didn't agree with the asking price set by Sundowns.
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The sources added that Sundowns valued the former Cape Town City defender at less than R10 million, a figure Chiefs were not happy with."Yes, it's true the talks were there. It's not like Sundowns put Mashego on the market. No. It's actually Chiefs who approached Sundowns. It was between Sundowns and Chiefs and Chiefs couldn't afford the offer. I can tell you it was less than R10 million, believe it or not. So, money was the only stumbling block for Mashego's move to Chiefs. No other reason. Money only. That's all," the Siya source stated.
A second insider stated that Sundowns were thought to be eager to secure a deal, as Mashego's contract is set to expire in six months, despite a one-year option being available.
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"You know why Sundowns agreed to the deal and gave Chiefs the price? It's because they don't want to lose him for free in July, he will technically be a free agent. So imagine losing out on such a quality defender? He is one of the best left backs in the country and he can play at any team in the PSL. Chiefs lost out on quality here because they didn't want to pay," the second source stated.
When contacted, his representatives Cream Sports Management mentioned they were not informed about the interest and prefer to focus on Sundowns.
"We never received any communication from Sundowns regarding Chiefs nor got a call from Chiefs. Mashego is still in the (Sundowns) coach's plans," CSM told Soccer Laduma.
The breakdown in negotiations highlights the financial complexities involved in top-tier transfers. Soccer Laduma contacted Chiefs and Sundowns to comment but received no response by the time this report was published.
