Mamelodi Sundowns defender Thato Sibiya closing in on Lille OSC move

French Ligue 1 club Lille OSC are understood to be in advanced negotiations to sign Mamelodi Sundowns left-back Thato Sibiya, with the 20-year-old’s move to Europe reportedly close to completion.

Sibiya has attracted interest from overseas clubs after making several appearances for Sundowns’ senior side last season. Sources close to the situation indicate that Lille OSC are leading the race for the young defender and that discussions have now reached their final stages.

The left-back was promoted to the Sundowns first team in January after impressing for the club’s DStv Diski Challenge side. His performances at senior level subsequently increased interest from clubs in Europe.

Sibiya’s international progress has also been monitored. He represented South Africa’s U20 side at both the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, further raising his profile during a key stage of his development.

Despite the growing speculation over his future, Sibiya has not yet been included in a matchday squad for Sundowns this season. That absence has added to suggestions that the club may be prepared to allow the promising defender to take up an opportunity abroad.

Those close to the player claim his switch to France is now imminent and that Sibiya has already said his goodbyes to people close to him. However, the deal has not yet been confirmed and negotiations remain ongoing while the transfer window is open.

Should the transfer be completed, it would mark a significant step in Sibiya’s career and provide another chance for Sundowns to see one of their young players continue his development in Europe.

Sundowns have regularly provided opportunities for emerging players, and a move to Lille OSC would give Sibiya the chance to test himself in a new footballing environment after progressing through the club’s development structure.

Further updates on the defender’s future are expected in the coming days as the talks between the clubs approach their conclusion.