Mamelodi Sundowns bid for Colombia U23 midfielder Josen Escobar

Mamelodi Sundowns have entered the race to sign highly-rated America de Cali midfielder Josen Escobar, with the South African club reported to have made a purchase offer for the Colombia U23 international.

Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra says Escobar is attracting proposals from three clubs based in different countries, creating a competitive contest for the 21-year-old defensive midfielder.

Sundowns are understood to be pursuing a permanent transfer, while Mexican club Santos Laguna have proposed a loan agreement that would include an option to buy. An unnamed Bulgarian club has also reportedly made a loan offer, although its proposal would include an obligation to purchase the player at the end of the temporary move.

The different structures of the bids leave America de Cali with several options to consider as they assess the future of one of their most valuable young players. Sundowns’ willingness to make a direct purchase offer could strengthen their position because it would provide America de Cali with the prospect of an immediate permanent transfer rather than a loan arrangement.

Escobar was born on 12 December 2004 in Santa Marta, Colombia, and has developed into a promising player in Colombia’s Categoria Primera A with America de Cali. His performances for the club have also led to international recognition, with the midfielder representing the Colombia U23 national team.

Primarily deployed as a central defensive midfielder, Escobar has built his reputation through his ability to protect his defence and influence matches from deeper areas of the pitch. Those qualities have attracted interest from clubs operating in markedly different football markets, with Sundowns, Santos Laguna and the Bulgarian side now competing for his signature.

For America de Cali, the presence of multiple suitors gives them a strong negotiating position. The Colombian club can compare a permanent purchase proposal with two loan-based offers, one of which could lead to a permanent transfer through an option to buy and the other containing a requirement for the eventual purchase to take place.

Santos Laguna’s proposal would initially allow Escobar to leave on loan, with the Mexican club retaining the choice to complete the transfer permanently. The Bulgarian offer, by contrast, would commit the club to buying the player after the loan period, subject to the terms of the reported agreement.

Sundowns’ approach is therefore the clearest attempt to secure Escobar outright at this stage. However, the reported interest from three continents means America de Cali are not limited to a single negotiating partner as they decide which proposal best suits the club and the player.

No agreement has been confirmed, but the reports indicate that Sundowns have become serious contenders for a midfielder whose progress with America de Cali and Colombia U23 has placed him among South America’s emerging young talents.