Mamelodi Sundowns increase offer for Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi

Mamelodi Sundowns have increased their offer for Polokwane City defender Thabang Matuludi as they look to address a growing shortage at right-back following injuries to Khuliso Mudau and Zuko Mdunyelwa.

Mudau is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, leaving Sundowns without one of their established options in the position. The situation worsened on Wednesday when Mdunyelwa was carried off during the Betway Premiership meeting with Milford FC at Loftus Versfeld.

Thapelo Morena is now the only available right-back in the Sundowns squad, and the Tshwane club are concerned about relying on a single player with fixtures arriving in quick succession.

A reliable source at Chloorkop has told BBC Sport that Sundowns have made a significantly improved proposal for Matuludi. The exact value of the offer is known to this publication, but has not been disclosed.

The club are understood to be hoping to complete the transfer in the coming days.

“The club has submitted a new offer for the services of the player,” said the source, who asked not to be named.

“They have now increased the offer by a few million.”

Matuludi is currently contracted to Polokwane City and has attracted interest from more than one of South Africa’s leading clubs. Orlando Pirates have continued to monitor the defender, who recently travelled with Bafana Bafana for the 2026 World Cup.

During that national-team campaign, Matuludi was regarded as the second-choice right-back behind Mudau. His experience with Bafana Bafana has added to his reputation as Sundowns seek a dependable replacement during a difficult period in their defensive planning.

Orlando Pirates’ need for a right-back has also increased after the Soweto club parted ways with Deano Van Rooyen. That departure has created room in their squad for the potential arrival of a new player in the position.

Sundowns’ renewed bid comes as the club attempt to prevent further disruption to their defence. Mudau’s long-term injury had already left a gap, while Mdunyelwa’s latest setback has reduced the team’s immediate options even further.

The proposed move for Matuludi would give Sundowns additional cover at right-back and help them cope with the demands of their crowded schedule. However, the club must still reach an agreement with Polokwane City before the transfer can be completed.

For now, Morena remains Sundowns’ sole fit specialist option in the position, increasing the pressure on the club to conclude negotiations quickly.