Mamelodi Sundowns appear to have won the race for one of South African football’s most sought-after defenders.
The Brazilians have reportedly reached an agreement with Polokwane City for Bafana Bafana right-back Thabang Matuludi, with the player’s move to Chloorkop now seemingly close to completion.
According to iDiski Times journalist Lorenz Kohler, Sundowns have agreed a deal with Rise and Shine and have also reached an agreement on personal terms with Matuludi.
The defender will reportedly undergo a medical before the transfer can be officially confirmed.
Sundowns beat Orlando Pirates to Matuludi
Sundowns’ move represents a significant transfer victory, particularly given Orlando Pirates’ reported interest in the Polokwane City star.
Matuludi has developed into one of the most exciting full-backs in the Betway Premiership, combining defensive ability with the pace and attacking threat to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Adding him to an already star-studded Sundowns squad would give the reigning domestic powerhouse another quality option in the full-back positions.
The move also comes as Sundowns continue to strengthen their squad with established South African talent.
From Limpopo amateur football to Sundowns
Matuludi’s reported move is the latest chapter in a remarkable football journey.
Born in Dennilton, Limpopo, on 14 January 1999, he started playing football at Kgahlanamorulana Secondary School in the Sekhukhune District.
Interestingly, Matuludi initially played as a winger before eventually converting to a defensive full-back while representing his teacher’s club in Jane Furse.
He then worked his way through the ABC Motsepe League with King Born and The Dolphins before catching Polokwane City’s attention in 2021.
That opportunity changed the trajectory of his career.
Polokwane City provided the breakthrough
Matuludi joined Polokwane City while the club was competing in the National First Division and quickly established himself as an important part of their defensive structure.
His contribution helped Rise and Shine secure promotion to the top flight ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Since then, he has continued to develop his reputation in the Betway Premiership, with his performances eventually earning him recognition at international level.
Bafana Bafana recognition followed
Matuludi received his first senior Bafana Bafana call-up for the 2024 COSAFA Cup.
He made his international debut against Mozambique and featured throughout the tournament.
His continued progress caught the attention of national team coach Hugo Broos, who subsequently selected him for South Africa’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
His rise reached another major milestone when he was included in South Africa’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Now, the 27-year-old could be on the verge of another major career move.
Another big signing for Sundowns?
If Matuludi completes his medical successfully, Sundowns will have added another Bafana Bafana international to their squad while simultaneously beating reported competition from Pirates.
For the player himself, the potential move is a remarkable reward for years of progression from amateur football in Limpopo to the highest levels of the South African game.
From the ABC Motsepe League to Polokwane City, Bafana Bafana and now potentially Mamelodi Sundowns — Matuludi’s rise continues.
Is Matuludi the right signing for Sundowns, or will Pirates regret missing out on the Bafana star?
