Mamelodi Sundowns lead race for America de Cali midfielder Josen Escobar

Mamelodi Sundowns have emerged as the favourites to sign America de Cali’s 21-year-old defensive midfielder Josen Escobar after the Colombian club made it clear that he will not leave on loan.

Reports from Colombia indicate that America de Cali are prepared to consider only permanent transfer offers for Escobar. Sundowns are reportedly the only club among his suitors to have made an offer to buy the player outright, giving the South African side a significant advantage in the negotiations.

Santos Laguna of Mexico and an unnamed Bulgarian club are also understood to be interested. However, both proposals involve loan arrangements, which appear to conflict with America de Cali’s position.

America de Cali reject loan proposals

Ivan Velez, the club’s sports manager, discussed the situation during an appearance on El VBar of AS Colombia, where he addressed the growing interest in Escobar from teams across several continents.

Velez said America de Cali had received approaches centred on temporary moves, but insisted the club was not interested in pursuing that route.

“Jose, as I told you, no proposals are put on the table, but they are fingers where they talk about loan, loan, loan. And we don’t go out for a loan. We don’t go out for a loan,” Velez stated.

The sports manager also underlined Escobar’s importance to America de Cali and suggested the midfielder should remain patient while his future is considered.

“Jose Escobar is a fundamental player in this moment for America. He already had a first experience abroad. Is there really a marked interest already announced by another club abroad and by Jose? Don’t despair, this is a jewel that America has in the middle of the field. And I hope he doesn’t despair either. But well, nowadays the heads are more different than others,” Velez added.

Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra has reported that Santos Laguna have proposed taking Escobar on loan with an option to buy. The Bulgarian club competing for his signature is said to have offered a loan deal that would include an obligation to purchase him.

America de Cali’s refusal to consider loans appears to have weakened the rival bids and left Sundowns in the strongest position. The Tshwane club’s willingness to complete a permanent transfer matches the Colombian side’s stated requirements.

Escobar attracting international interest

Escobar was born in Santa Marta, Colombia, on 12 December 2004. He has developed into one of the emerging talents in Colombia’s Categoria Primera A while playing for America de Cali.

His performances have also earned him international recognition with the Colombia Under-23 national team.

A central defensive midfielder, Escobar is noted for his ability to protect the defence and build play from deeper areas. Those qualities have attracted attention from clubs in different football markets, with Sundowns now appearing to have the clearest path to a deal.

The latest development comes as Sundowns continue to assess a player who has already gained experience outside Colombia and is regarded by America de Cali as a key part of their midfield. For now, the club’s insistence on a permanent move has made the South African champions the leading contenders to secure his signature.