Mamelodi Sundowns prepare improved Marcelo Allende deal amid overseas interest

Mamelodi Sundowns are preparing an improved contract offer for Marcelo Allende as they seek to retain the Chilean midfielder beyond his current agreement, although clubs in Mexico and Major League Soccer are monitoring his situation.

Allende is currently in the fifth year of his spell at Chloorkop, having joined the African champions from Uruguayan club Montevideo City Torque on a significant transfer. His original agreement was structured as a three-year contract with a two-year option, and Sundowns exercised that option before the Club World Cup last year.

The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the club’s most important players, averaging an impressive 44 appearances per season. Sundowns have therefore received substantial value from their investment in the midfielder, which was a key factor in the decision to extend his stay.

The club’s next objective is to secure a completely new contract for Allende. That agreement would take effect in the year he becomes eligible to apply for permanent residence, a change that would allow him to be registered as a non-foreigner.

Financial terms are expected to be central to whether the proposed extension is completed. Interest from Mexico’s top division and MLS has increased, with clubs in both markets understood to have been alerted to Allende’s availability should he decide to consider a move away from South Africa.

Information from South America indicates that Allende is content at Chloorkop and would be open to remaining with Sundowns. However, he is also expected to assess opportunities in North America before making a final decision on his future.

Sundowns, known as The Brazilians, have the financial strength to make a serious effort to keep him. The club could increase its budget to place Allende among the highest-paid footballers in the Betway Premiership.

Such an agreement would be worth more than R10 million per year, equivalent to approximately USD618,000. Allende’s earnings are generally calculated against the United States dollar, a system familiar to clubs and football figures in South America.

Several Mexican clubs and many MLS sides would be capable of meeting demands in the region of USD618,000 without difficulty. However, those salaries are more commonly offered to established international players.

Although Allende captained Chile at junior international level, he has made only one senior appearance for La Roja. That limited international record could be a factor in how clubs outside South Africa assess his value, despite his consistent involvement for Sundowns.

The midfielder is understood to be keen on another long-term arrangement that would guarantee him at least three more years at the club, with the possibility of extending the deal by a further two seasons.

For Sundowns, reaching an agreement would protect one of their most regularly used players while also allowing the club to plan for his changing registration status. For Allende, the decision will involve balancing his satisfaction at Mamelodi Sundowns with the prospect of a lucrative move to Mexico or MLS.