Mamelodi Sundowns have officially unveiled 19-year-old Lazola Maku, adding the Amajita captain to their squad as the Tshwane giants continue investing in young South African talent. The midfielder joins on a free transfer after leaving Siwelele FC and impressing during the recent COSAFA Under-20 tournament.
Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed the signing of promising youngster Lazola Maku, making another addition to their squad ahead of the ongoing campaign.
The 19-year-old was available as a free agent following his departure from Siwelele FC at the end of last season. His arrival follows reports linking him with a move to Chloorkop, which emerged in the media the previous week.
Maku had reportedly travelled to Austria for trials in an effort to secure a club after his release, but those opportunities did not result in a move. He subsequently received another chance to showcase his ability when Amajita coach Raymond Mdaka selected him for South Africa’s Under-20 squad at the COSAFA tournament.
His performances during the competition reportedly caught the attention of Sundowns’ scouting department, leading to the club’s decision to bring him on board.
Although the precise terms have not been officially disclosed in the supplied report, Maku is believed to have signed a long-term contract with the reigning African champions.
Sundowns Add Another Promising Young Talent
Maku’s arrival represents another investment in the future for Sundowns, who have continued to strengthen their squad while looking for emerging players capable of contributing over the long term.
As captain of the Amajita setup, the teenager arrives with experience in youth international football and an opportunity to develop within one of South Africa’s leading clubs.
His versatility is another potential asset, with the youngster described as a utility player who can offer options in midfield.
The move also gives Maku a fresh opportunity to establish himself at club level after his unsuccessful attempts to secure a move abroad during the previous transfer period.
Could Lazola Maku Become a Long-Term Midfield Option?
Sundowns’ midfield has included established players such as Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas. Bringing in a younger player could help the club build depth and prepare for future changes within the squad.
Maku is still at an early stage of his professional career, so he will need time to adapt to Sundowns’ expectations and compete for opportunities in the first team.
His development will be closely watched as he transitions from youth football into a more demanding club environment. The signing provides a platform for him to grow, although his eventual role in the senior side remains to be seen.
Sundowns Also Linked With Ecuadorian Midfielder Jhegson Méndez
The club’s reported plans for midfield reinforcement may extend beyond Maku. The original report also suggested that Sundowns were expected to announce the signing of Ecuador international Jhegson Méndez in January.
At 29, Méndez would offer considerably more experience than the teenage Maku. However, the report did not present that potential move as an officially completed signing.
If the deal progresses, the two midfielders would represent different types of investment: an experienced international option and a young prospect with room to develop.
A Fresh Opportunity for Maku at Chloorkop
For Maku, joining Mamelodi Sundowns marks an important step after a period of uncertainty following his departure from Siwelele FC.
His performances at the COSAFA Under-20 tournament appear to have helped reopen the door to a major club opportunity. Now, the challenge will be to continue developing and prove that he can compete at the highest level of South African football.
Sundowns supporters will be eager to see how the Amajita captain progresses and whether he can eventually establish himself as a regular option in the team.
