AmaZulu president Sandile Zungu has revealed that his side narrowly missed out on the signing of Tshegofatso Mabasa.
The 27-year-old Orlando Pirates player spent last season on loan with Sekhukhune United.
This term he joined Moroka Swallows on loan but was recalled during the January transfer window after Pirates decided to part ways with Bienvenu Eva Nga.
Usuthu had been chasing the former Bloemfontein Celtic attacker, as well as Bongani Sam who also on-loan at Swallows during the first round of this season.
But while Mabasa has slotted back into the Buccaneers set-up, Sam was, meanwhile, expelled by Swallows for his reported involvement in a player striker at the club.
Speaking to FARPost, Zungu explained their failed bid for Mabasa.
He said: “We were informed by Orlando Pirates that they let go of Eva Nga, he went to Chippa.
“So, they felt they needed replacement, Mabasa is their player. They were not really keen to let go of him.”