Mamelodi Sundowns could be preparing to make a move for former Orlando Pirates defender Deano van Rooyen as the reigning South African giants look for solutions at right-back following Khuliso Mudau’s injury setback.
Mudau’s Achilles tendon injury has created an unexpected problem for Miguel Cardoso, with the Bafana Bafana international expected to spend several weeks on the sidelines. With Sundowns competing on multiple fronts this season, the need for dependable defensive cover has become increasingly important.
Van Rooyen has reportedly emerged as one of the options being considered at Chloorkop. The 28-year-old knows the demands of top-level PSL football and previously spent two seasons with Orlando Pirates, where he was part of a successful squad that lifted four trophies.
His time with the Buccaneers ultimately came to an end after struggling to establish himself as a regular starter, but a potential move to Sundowns could offer the defender another opportunity to compete at the highest level.
However, Van Rooyen is not believed to be Sundowns’ first-choice target. Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi reportedly remains the club’s preferred option, although securing his services could prove difficult. Matuludi is understood to be open to a move, but Polokwane City are reportedly reluctant to allow the Bafana Bafana defender to join another South African club.
That situation could push Sundowns towards alternative targets, with Van Rooyen potentially becoming a more realistic option as the transfer window approaches its closing stages.
The timing is particularly significant for Cardoso. Sundowns currently occupy second place in the Betway Premiership after their victory over Magesi, sitting level with league leaders Orlando Pirates on points and separated only by goal difference.
The Brazilians are also facing an exceptionally demanding campaign, with the club involved in more than six competitions. Maintaining squad depth will therefore be critical, particularly when injuries threaten to disrupt key positions.
With Mudau unavailable and the transfer window set to close within the next few weeks, Sundowns have limited time to decide whether to strengthen their right-back options. Whether they ultimately pursue Matuludi, turn to Van Rooyen or identify another solution, the club’s next move could prove important as Cardoso looks to keep his squad competitive across a packed season.
Mamelodi Sundowns could be preparing to make a move for former Orlando Pirates defender Deano van Rooyen as the reigning South African giants look for solutions at right-back following Khuliso Mudau’s injury setback.
Mudau’s Achilles tendon injury has created an unexpected problem for Miguel Cardoso, with the Bafana Bafana international expected to spend several weeks on the sidelines. With Sundowns competing on multiple fronts this season, the need for dependable defensive cover has become increasingly important.
Van Rooyen has reportedly emerged as one of the options being considered at Chloorkop. The 28-year-old knows the demands of top-level PSL football and previously spent two seasons with Orlando Pirates, where he was part of a successful squad that lifted four trophies.
His time with the Buccaneers ultimately came to an end after struggling to establish himself as a regular starter, but a potential move to Sundowns could offer the defender another opportunity to compete at the highest level.
However, Van Rooyen is not believed to be Sundowns’ first-choice target. Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi reportedly remains the club’s preferred option, although securing his services could prove difficult. Matuludi is understood to be open to a move, but Polokwane City are reportedly reluctant to allow the Bafana Bafana defender to join another South African club.
That situation could push Sundowns towards alternative targets, with Van Rooyen potentially becoming a more realistic option as the transfer window approaches its closing stages.
The timing is particularly significant for Cardoso. Sundowns currently occupy second place in the Betway Premiership after their victory over Magesi, sitting level with league leaders Orlando Pirates on points and separated only by goal difference.
The Brazilians are also facing an exceptionally demanding campaign, with the club involved in more than six competitions. Maintaining squad depth will therefore be critical, particularly when injuries threaten to disrupt key positions.
With Mudau unavailable and the transfer window set to close within the next few weeks, Sundowns have limited time to decide whether to strengthen their right-back options. Whether they ultimately pursue Matuludi, turn to Van Rooyen or identify another solution, the club’s next move could prove important as Cardoso looks to keep his squad competitive across a packed season.
