Mamelodi Sundowns Receive European Interest for Thapelo Maseko

Mamelodi Sundowns Receive European Interest for Thapelo Maseko

  • Thapelo Maseko is attracting transfer interest from a club in Cyprus, potentially opening the door to European football if Mamelodi Sundowns agrees to talks
  • Despite past success and continental accolades, including being named African Football League Player of the Tournament, Maseko has only made 12 appearances this season
  • A move to Cyprus could see him follow in the footsteps of Bafana Bafana teammate Mihlali Mayambela, who plays for Aris Limassol and competes in the UEFA Europa League

Mamelodi Sundowns winger Thapelo Maseko is attracting interest from Cyprus ahead of the upcoming transfer window. The 21-year-old could secure a switch to Europe, depending on whether Sundowns are open to engaging in negotiations.

Maseko challenges Ben Hamida in a tense CAF Champions League clash
Amine Ben Hamida clears the ball from Thapelo Maseko during the CAF quarter-final in Pretoria. Image: Phill Magakoe
Source: Getty Images

Key role at Sundowns since arrival

Maseko joined the Tshwane giants from SuperSport United two seasons ago in a deal worth over R10 million. He made an immediate impact under then-head coach Rulani Mokwena, becoming a crucial part of the squad. His rise earned him a call-up to Bafana Bafana and a spot in the AFCON 2024 squad that claimed bronze.

AFL accolades and growing reputation

In November 2023, Maseko was voted Player of the Tournament in the inaugural African Football League. This further underlined his potential and reinforced his status as one of the most exciting young South African talents.

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Past European interests highlighted

Before his Sundowns move, Maseko had interest from Belgian Pro League side KV Westerlo and other European clubs. SuperSport United received offers to send him for assessments abroad but instead sold him to Sundowns. Now, Europe has come knocking again, with Cyprus the latest possible destination.

UEFA Europa League opportunity

If the move materialises, Maseko could join compatriot Mihlali Mayambela in Cyprus. Mayambela has been with Aris Limassol since 2022, competing in the UEFA Europa League. A similar path could raise Maseko’s profile and boost his European prospects.

Formal discussions are yet to begin

SABC Sport has learned that an official enquiry has been submitted to Sundowns. However, there are no concrete negotiations at this stage between the involved parties. The final decision rests with the club and the player's ambitions.

Limited game time raises eyebrows.

Despite his talent, Maseko has featured only 12 times this season for Sundowns. At times, he has even been deployed in the DStv Diski Challenge to stay match-fit. This limited role could be a motivating factor behind his potential move abroad.

The future hangs in the balance. triggeringbuyout.

Whether Maseko remains in South Africa or makes the leap to Europe remains to be seen. More developments are expected once the transfer window officially opens later this year.

A determined challenge as Maseko pushes forward against Traore in South Africa’s AFCON 2024 opener against Mali
Thapelo Maseko battles Mali’s Hamari Traore for possession during a tense Group E clash at AFCON 2024 in Korhogo. Image: Fadel Senna
Source: Getty Images

Jayden Adams gains Sevilla FC’s attention

Briefly News previously reported that Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has attracted growing interest from Spanish La Liga side Sevilla FC, who have been closely tracking his progress.

Despite Sevilla’s intent to bring the 23-year-old to Europe, Sundowns are determined to keep him, seeing Adams as a central figure in their long-term plans. His strong performances in both the PSL and for Bafana Bafana have cemented his status as one of South Africa’s brightest prospects.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Ncube Harrison avatar

Ncube Harrison (Sports Editor) Harrison Ncube is a passionate sports journalist with six years of experience covering African and global sports. Harrison provides sharp analysis, engaging commentary, and compelling storytelling. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies from the Zimbabwe Open University and previously worked at Sports Buzz (2018–2022), freelanced for Sports Journal (2023–2024), and contributed to Radio 54 African Panorama Live (2021–2023). For inquiries, reach him at ncube.harrison@briefly.co.za