Lucas Ribeiro Transfer: Mamelodi Sundowns Star Set to Leave Amid Interest from Europe and Qatar
- Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro is on the verge of leaving the club, with overseas interest intensifying
- The Brazilian attacker departed pre-season camp as transfer talks reportedly reached an advanced stage
- His exit would be a major blow for Sundowns ahead of the new season, with key decisions looming
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Mamelodi Sundowns talisman Lucas Ribeiro is reportedly on the verge of leaving the club, just a year after making his debut for the reigning South African champions.
According to FARPost, Ribeiro left the club's pre-season training camp early on Saturday, as negotiations around a possible transfer reached an advanced stage.
Source: Getty Images
Which clubs have been linked with Ribeiro?
The Brazilian forward is attracting strong interest from several clubs abroad, with sides in Qatar, Brazil, France, and Belgium reportedly eager to secure his services. His departure could be imminent as transfer talks continue to gather momentum.
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Ribeiro has been a standout performer since his arrival at Chloorkop in 2023. In just one season, he scored 25 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions, playing a central role in Sundowns' domestic dominance.
His sensational strike at the FIFA Club World Cup was awarded Goal of the Tournament, and he scooped a whooping four awards at the PSL 2024-25 Awards gala held on Tuesday evening.
With the 2025/26 campaign fast approaching, Sundowns have already begun laying the foundation for another successful season.
Which signing has Sundowns made so far?
The club has made its first signing in former Stellenbosch FC captain Fawaaz Basadien, brought in to strengthen the defensive unit as the Brazilians prepare to defend their Betway Premiership crown and mount a challenge in the CAF Champions League.
However, the likely departure of Ribeiro has cast uncertainty over the club’s attacking strategy. Questions are mounting over who will fill the void left by the prolific striker. Compounding that uncertainty are ongoing rumours regarding Namibian forward Peter Shalulile, whose future at the club also appears unsettled.
Source: Getty Images
In addition, playmaker Thembinkosi Lorch has returned from a short loan spell at Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Casablanca, but the club has yet to confirm whether he will remain part of coach Miguel Cardoso's plans for the new season.
The coming days are expected to be crucial for Sundowns’ technical team, as key decisions must be made to reshape the attacking line-up before competitive action resumes.
When is the first game for Sundowns this season?
Masandawana will begin their domestic campaign this weekend when they face Richards Bay in the MTN8 quarter-final clash at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday. All eyes will be on how the team responds on the pitch amid the swirling transfer speculation and internal adjustments.
Orlando Pirates secure midfielder signing ahead of Chiefs
Briefly News previously reported that Orlando Pirates have successfully signed a South African midfielder who was also on Kaizer Chiefs’ radar ahead of the upcoming season.
The Buccaneers had been closely tracking the player’s progress since last season, competing with the Glamour Boys for his signature.
Source: Briefly News
