Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro set for Esperance move

Former Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Lucas Ribeiro is reportedly closing in on a move to Tunisian giants Esperance Sportive de Tunis in the current window.

The 26-year-old has become a free agent following the relegation of Spanish Segunda Division side Cultural Leonesa, where he spent last season after leaving South Africa under controversial circumstances.

According to reports, Esperance are expected to officially unveil Ribeiro on Monday after reaching an agreement over a three-year contract. If completed, the move would see the Brazilian strengthen one of Africa’s biggest clubs and, interestingly, a direct rival of his former side in continental competitions.

Ribeiro’s proposed switch to Tunisia comes after an eventful period in his career.

The Brazilian parted ways with Mamelodi Sundowns after terminating his contract with the South African champions, a move that sparked controversy. Sundowns subsequently lodged a complaint with FIFA, challenging the circumstances surrounding the player’s departure.

Despite the ongoing dispute, the case has yet to be concluded. Ribeiro was nevertheless able to continue his career in Europe, featuring for Cultural Leonesa during the 2025/26 campaign while the FIFA matter remained unresolved.

His time in Spain, however, ended on a disappointing note after Cultural Leonesa suffered relegation, leaving the winger available on the free-agent market ahead of the new season.

Since becoming available, Ribeiro has been linked with several clubs across Africa and beyond.

Libyan powerhouse Al-Ittihad were reportedly interested in securing his services, while speculation also surfaced about a possible return to Mamelodi Sundowns despite the unresolved dispute between the player and the club.

However, those rumours now appear to have been overtaken by developments in Tunisia.

Esperance, fresh from another ambitious recruitment drive, have reportedly moved swiftly to secure the Brazilian’s signature. The club believes Ribeiro’s pace, creativity and attacking versatility could add another dimension to their frontline as they prepare for both domestic and continental challenges.

A move to Esperance would see Ribeiro return to familiar territory after spending the past season in Europe.

During his spell with Sundowns, the Brazilian showcased flashes of quality with his technical ability, dribbling and eye for goal, although his exit overshadowed much of his contribution to the Pretoria-based club.

Joining Esperance would also place him back in the CAF Champions League, where the Tunisian giants are expected to challenge for continental honours once again.

Ribeiro will reportedly sign a three-year contract with the Tunisian champions, giving the Brazilian another opportunity to revive his career at one of Africa’s most successful clubs.