Mamelodi Sundowns agree R28m Thapelo Maseko sale to FC Copenhagen

Mamelodi Sundowns have agreed a €1.5m (R28m) fee with FC Copenhagen for the transfer of Thapelo Maseko, although the South Africa winger still needs to settle personal terms with the Danish club.

The 22-year-old has fallen out of favour at Mamelodi Sundowns, despite making a strong impression during a loan spell with AEL Limassol last season. His form in Cyprus helped revive his career and earned him international recognition.

Maseko’s performances were sufficiently impressive for former Bafana Bafana manager Hugo Broos to select him in South Africa’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

He started three of Bafana Bafana’s four matches at the tournament and scored the decisive goal in their 1-0 victory over South Korea. That result secured South Africa’s place in the knockout stages for the first time in the country’s history.

However, Maseko’s contribution at the World Cup did not change his situation at Mamelodi Sundowns. The Premier Soccer League club continued to look for a new destination for the winger, who was not part of their plans.

FC Copenhagen have now emerged as the club most interested in taking him to Europe. The Danish side, formerly represented by Sibusiso Zuma, have reached an agreement with Mamelodi Sundowns over the transfer fee.

The move is not yet complete because Maseko must still agree terms with FC Copenhagen. Those negotiations are not expected to present a major obstacle, with the player keen to continue his career in Europe.

Maseko’s proposed move comes after a season in which his loan spell at AEL Limassol gave him the opportunity to regain regular involvement and show the qualities that had previously made him a prominent prospect at Mamelodi Sundowns.

His World Cup involvement further increased his profile. Maseko played a key role in South Africa’s campaign, combining starting opportunities with a memorable goal against South Korea in a match that delivered a historic qualification for the knockout rounds.

Despite that success on the international stage, Mamelodi Sundowns have opted to pursue a permanent transfer rather than reintegrate him into their plans. FC Copenhagen’s agreement with the South African club represents a significant step towards securing Maseko’s next move.

The outstanding personal terms are the only issue identified in the proposed deal, with the player understood to be eager to remain in Europe following his time in Cyprus.

Story by Lorenz Kohler.