Sundowns step up pursuit of free-agent defender Deano van Rooyen

Mamelodi Sundowns have intensified their efforts to sign former Orlando Pirates defender Deano van Rooyen, with negotiations understood to be at an advanced stage after another concern at right-back.

The African champions are reassessing their defensive options following Zuko Mdunyelwa’s early withdrawal in Wednesday’s 2-0 Betway Premiership victory over Milford FC. His latest fitness issue appears to have increased the urgency behind Sundowns’ interest in van Rooyen.

Van Rooyen became a free agent two weeks ago after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract with Pirates. His availability has since made him an increasingly attractive option for Sundowns, who are preparing for a particularly demanding period across several competitions.

Sundowns had initially believed they had enough cover in the position after Khuliso Mudau suffered an Achilles rupture. The Bafana Bafana international is expected to be sidelined for at least six months.

Zuko Mdunyelwa and Thapelo Morena had been viewed as capable alternatives, but Mdunyelwa’s latest fitness concern has prompted the club to reconsider whether its current depth is sufficient.

SABC Sport understands Sundowns have tabled an offer for van Rooyen, with discussions now focused on the finer details of a possible agreement. The interest in the 27-year-old was already known, although the situation involving Mdunyelwa appears to have accelerated the process.

A move for van Rooyen would give Sundowns an experienced option without the need to pay a transfer fee. The defender has significant Premier Soccer League experience and also played in the CAF Champions League during his time at Orlando Pirates.

The need for additional cover has been heightened by Sundowns’ congested schedule. The club faces commitments in domestic competitions and CAF interclub football, while the FIFA Intercontinental Cup is also included on its fixture list.

That workload has led the club to examine whether it can rely on its existing right-back options throughout the season. Sundowns are now considering whether to complete a signing that would add immediate experience and depth to a position affected by injury concerns.

The club’s decision will determine whether van Rooyen returns to the Premier Soccer League with the African champions after his recent departure from Orlando Pirates. For now, negotiations remain under way, with the two parties working through the details of a potential deal.