Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa set for shock Mamelodi Sundowns return

Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa is set for a sensational return to Mamelodi Sundowns amid the ongoing FIFA tribunal proceedings involving the player.

Ribeiro parted ways with the South African giants under controversial circumstances last season after terminating his contract, despite still being tied to the club. His departure prompted the reigning CAF Champions League winners to report the matter to FIFA, paving the way for a legal dispute.

Despite the pending case, FIFA cleared the Brazilian to join Spanish Segunda Division outfit Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa while awaiting the tribunal’s final ruling.

The unresolved dispute has since complicated Ribeiro’s future, with the ongoing FIFA proceedings reportedly preventing a proposed move to Libyan club Al-Ittihad Club from materialising.

Should the tribunal determine that Ribeiro acted improperly in terminating his contract, the Brazilian could face financial sanctions or be ordered to compensate his former club.

However, fresh reports suggest Sundowns are prepared to take a different approach.

Sources close to the club indicate that the Pretoria-based outfit would rather welcome Ribeiro back into the squad than pursue financial compensation through the tribunal process.

The club’s hierarchy reportedly believes the Brazilian attacker still possesses the quality needed to strengthen the team as Sundowns look to reassert their dominance in South African football following recent challenges.

A return to Chloorkop could also provide a practical resolution for both parties, potentially bringing an end to the legal dispute while allowing Ribeiro to resume his career in familiar surroundings.

An official announcement regarding the player’s future is reportedly expected before the end of the month, with all eyes now on whether Sundowns and Ribeiro can complete a remarkable reunion.