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CONUNDRUM: Siphiwe Tshabalala. Picture by Gallo Images

 If there are any challenges, there are ways and means of solving them. We are dealing with a professional outfit like Chiefs. 

Contrasting statements have emanated from both camps, with Amakhosi insisting they had agreed terms with Tshabalala and that they expect to finalise a deal with him tomorrow.

On the other hand, Tshabalala's business manager, Jazzman Mahlakgane said on Metro FM on Friday that Tshabalala was due to sign with English Championship side Crystal Palace tomorrow.

But Amakhosi's manager Bobby Motaung yesterday said they would stick to an agreement they had with the player.

"We heard about what he said on Friday but we don't want to get to that. We are going to stick to what we had agreed on with all the parties concerned," said Motaung.

"We have agreed terms with Tshabalala and we expect to finalise the deal tomorrow. We are one of the teams challenging for league honours and that is why we are sorting the issue of contracts with the players. We want the players to be fully focused on the major task and not be distracted by contract issues.

"We do things in a professional way. All our players are under contract. If there is a change in the deal, we will deal with it tomorrow."

On the other hand, goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has agreed to a new deal with Amakhosi on Friday.

Included in Khune's deal are clauses which would allow the Bafana Bafana shot-stopper to go for trials overseas and possibly secure a move should an opportunity arise.

Among those who have also committed themselves to Amakhosi are Josta Dladla, Abia Nale and Jimmy Tau.

Tshabalala though, has been hankering for an overseas move for a while, but it looks increasingly likely that he will only move in the off-season.

Meanwhile, national under-23 striker Mandla Masango is expected to renew his contract with the Naturena-based side this week after he failed to take up an invitation to go on trials with one of the second division French teams, SC Angers.

Masango's business manager Walter Mokoena confirmed to Sunday World yesterday that his charge will no longer make the trip to France because of time constraints.

"Time is against us," said Mokoena, the former SABC sports presenter, who is now based in France.

"The transfer window will close in nine days and we won't be able to finalise the deal on time. Besides, the league will kick off soon. But we will continue to engage the club and hope for the best.

"The player has not signed a new contract with Chiefs, which will expire at the end of the season. But the club has expressed an interest in extending it.

"The coach said the player was part and parcel of the team and does not want any disruptions to his plans, and we respect that.

"The boy has been with the team for five years and would also like to be part of the team that is challenging for the league title and hopefully win it.

"If there are any challenges, there are ways and means of solving them. We are dealing with a professional outfit like Chiefs."