Mamelodi Sundowns exploring European move for Thato Sibiya

Sibiya, 20, is regarded as one of the most promising players in the Sundowns system and was part of the South Africa U20 squad at last year’s FIFA World Cup in Chile and has since made nine appearances at junior international level.

The left back was promoted to Sundowns’ first team in January and made a handful of appearances towards the end of last season. However, he has yet to feature in a matchday squad this season.

That situation has fuelled speculation that Sundowns could be considering an overseas opportunity for Sibiya, although it is not yet clear whether the Brazilians have made a definitive decision on his future.

READ: Banyana Banyana see off Nigeria to keep World Cup qualification bid on track, Ghana beat Ivory Coast

Sundowns have already sanctioned the departure of another young player with international pedigree, after agreeing a deal for Thapelo Maseko’s move to FC Copenhagen following an impressive World Cup campaign with Bafana Bafana. 

Maseko is expected in Denmark this weekend for his medical before completing a three-year deal in one of Europe’s top leagues. 

Sibiya could potentially become the next youngster to leave Chloorkop, although any move would depend on the nature of the interest and whether Sundowns receive an offer they consider suitable.

The Brazilians had hoped Sibiya could establish himself as part of their first-team plans this season, following the pathway taken by other youngsters such as Bennet Mokoena, Malibongwe Khoza and Gomolemo Kekana.

For now, sources indicate there is interest and that Sundowns are assessing their options rather than actively pushing Sibiya out of the club.

With the transfer window remaining open until September 21, the possibility of a European move cannot be ruled out.