Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly closing in on a massive coup, opening talks to sign former Espérance Sportive de Tunis playmaker Yan Sasse on a free transfer.
The 29-year-old Brazilian attacking midfielder is high on the Chloorkop wishlist as the Betway Premiership giants look to fortify their squad ahead of a demanding new season.
The Cardoso Factor: A Pivotal Reunion
Sasse is a name etched into the memory of Masandawana fans. He famously scored the decisive goal that knocked Sundowns out of the 2024 CAF Champions League semi-finals. While the midfield maestro previously showed little interest in moving to the Premier Soccer League (PSL), the arrival of head coach Miguel Cardoso at Sundowns has completely changed the landscape.
Having flourished under Cardoso at Espérance, Sasse is now highly keen on a reunion in South Africa, reportedly turning down lucrative offers from North Africa and the Gulf region to make the switch.
Global Experience & Continental Pedigree
Sasse brings an incredible footballing resume to Pretoria, having proved his mettle across multiple continents:
- South America: Came through the ranks at Coritiba, with stints at Vasco da Gama, Sport Recife, and América Mineiro.
- Europe & Oceania: Spent time with Çaykur Rizespor in Turkey and Wellington Phoenix in Australia’s A-League.
- Africa: Reached peak form with Espérance, racking up 104 appearances, 24 goals, and 13 assists, cementing his status as one of the continent’s elite creators.
Squad Dynamics: Sasse’s arrival is expected to fill a vital foreign player spot at Chloorkop, with Portuguese midfielder Miguel Reisinho heavily linked with an exit.
If finalized, Sundowns will secure a proven, big-match continental performer perfectly suited to fuel their relentless pursuit of another CAF Champions League crown.
