A South African youth international is on the radar of a Belgian side ahead of the 2023/24 season.
SuperSport United’s breakout star Thapelo Maseko has attracted the interest of Belgian Pro Jupiler League side KV Westerlo.
The attacking midfielder has been in fine form for both club and country. He scored recently for the national Under 23 side.
YOUTH INTERNATIONAL GAINING PROMINENCE
Although he debuted last season, Maseko is only gaining prominence this season, thanks to his goalscoring contributions for Matsatsantsa.
The 20-year-old has made 20 appearances this season, hitting the target thrice. According to SABC Sport, the Belgian side, formerly home to Bafana Bafana star Lyle Foster, have tabled two offers.
“We believe this was expected because Thapelo has had a phenomenal season under coach Gavin Hunt. He was recently called up to the U23 and mentioned by Bafana coach Hugo Broos. We can confirm the offer,” the player’s agent Lance Davids of Football First, said.
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Davids, a former international based in Belgium, is convinced the youngster has what it takes to play in Europe.
“I think he is ready for the step up. He can follow in the footsteps of SA players who move to Europe at a young age and have done well in the past,” he added.
WESTERLO AN IDEAL CLUB
Westerlo, he believes, is an ideal club, having been home to several South Africans.
The likes of Foster, Elrio van Heerden, Masilo Modubi, Jeffery Ntuka and Boy-Boy Mosia all had stints with the club.
Kaizer Chiefs’ duo of Bontle Molefe and Mduduzi Shabalala underwent trials at the club last year.
The decision lies with the club on whether they want to part with the academy graduate so early in his career.
SuperSport are known not to stand in the way of their players when they get opportunities.
Maseko is contracted to the club until June 2025, and indications are that his contract has no buyout clause.