Deano van Rooyen emerges as answer to Sundowns right back crisis

van Rooyen became a free agent two weeks ago after mutually terminating his contract with Pirates, and his availability has now become increasingly attractive to Sundowns as they reassess their defensive depth.

The Brazilians initially believed they had sufficient cover following Khuliso Mudau’s Achilles rupture, which is expected to keep the Bafana Bafana international sidelined for at least six months. 

Zuko Mdunyelwa and Thapelo Morena were regarded as capable options.

However, Mdunyelwa’s early withdrawal during Wednesday’s 2-0 victory over Milford FC in the Betway Premiership appears to have accelerated the situation, with Sundowns now understood to be keen to add another experienced option ahead of an extremely congested period.

The African champions face commitments across domestic competitions and CAF interclub football, while also having the FIFA Intercontinental Cup on their schedule. That workload has prompted the club to reassess whether its current options are sufficient to cope with the demands on the right side of defence.

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van Rooyen’s availability on a free transfer makes the deal particularly appealing – the 27-year-old has significant Premier Soccer League experience and also featured in the CAF Champions League during his time with Pirates.

SABC Sport understands an offer has been tabled, with negotiations now focused on the finer details of a potential deal.

The interest in van Rooyen has been known, but Mdunyelwa’s latest fitness concern appears to have changed the urgency around the move. 

Sundowns are now weighing up whether to push the button on a signing that would provide immediate experience and depth during one of the busiest stretches of their season.