Mamelodi Sundowns Set to Show Interest in Orlando Pirates Target As Khuliso Mudau’s Replacement

Mamelodi Sundowns Set to Show Interest in Orlando Pirates Target As Khuliso Mudau’s Replacement

  • Khuliso Mudau was stretchered off during Sundowns' 2-0 win over Marumo Gallants, with reports suggesting a potentially season-ending injury
  • Thabang Matuludi of Polokwane City has emerged as a transfer target, with Orlando Pirates already reportedly interested in the right-back
  • Sundowns could now enter the race for Matuludi, setting up a potential transfer battle between two of the PSL's biggest clubs

Mamelodi Sundowns may be forced into the transfer market after Khuliso Mudau sustained a serious injury during the club's 2-0 victory over Marumo Gallants on Wednesday, with reports indicating the Bafana Bafana right-back could miss the entire season.

Mudau was stretchered off the field in the first half after the injury occurred, and the Sundowns coach confirmed to SuperSport TV that the defender faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The setback leaves a significant gap in the right-back position for the Chloorkop club.

Matuludi emerges as key transfer target

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Polokwane City's Thabang Matuludi has been widely linked with a departure from Rise and Shine during the current transfer window, and Sundowns' misfortune could accelerate interest in the defender. Matuludi has built a strong reputation as one of the most capable right-backs in the Premier Soccer League and has also earned international recognition.

Orlando Pirates had already been reported as interested in securing his signature, though no formal offer from the Buccaneers appears to have been tabled yet. Sundowns' entry into the race could change that quickly, turning what was a one-sided pursuit into a full PSL transfer battle.

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Playing time could be the deciding factor

For Matuludi, the prospect of first-team football may weigh heavily in his decision. A move to Sundowns could offer him an immediate pathway into the starting line-up given Mudau's absence, whereas a switch to Pirates might present stiffer competition for places.

At the Orlando Stadium side, Deon van Rooyen and Kamogelo Sebelebele are both capable of operating at right-back, while Mike Mphasha can also cover the right flank as an attacking option. The depth of Pirates' options in that area of the pitch could make consistent selection more difficult for Matuludi.

At Sundowns, by contrast, Mudau's absence creates an opening that a new signing could fill as the club's primary right-back for a substantial portion of the campaign.

Read also

PSL history made as Mamelodi Sundowns beat Marumo Gallants

Whether Matuludi ultimately moves to Chloorkop, joins Pirates, or remains at Polokwane City for another season is yet to be determined as the transfer window continues.

Bafana star leaves Sundowns for PSL rivals

Briefly News also reported that a Bafana Bafana star has decided to leave Mamelodi Sundowns for the second season running for Premier Soccer League rivals.

The South African international is one of the few players leaving the CAF Champions League champions this summer ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over seven years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@briefly.co.za.