The former Kaizer Chiefs skipper impressed during a 10-day trial at the US club, but 'Masha' is coming home empty-handed.

The KICK OFF Footballer of the Season's agent Jazzman Mahlakgane explained to KickOff.com that 'it looked more like a done deal', but nothing materialised.

"Up until last night it looked more like a done deal with NYCFC, but I am sad to announce that the club wasn't granted a spot to bring Tefu on board and two other players they intended to sign," Mahlakgane explains.

"The sports director David Lee explained what really happened and expressed his disappointment as well. Disappointing as it is, we believe it's not the end of our hunt for an international opportunity for Skipper," Mahlakgane adds.

This website explained last night that New York City FC's 10 international roster spots are all filled following their recent signing of Colombian centre-back Jefferson Mena, which means the club would have had to let a foreign player go before they could sign another non-local player.