Sunderland are reportedly pursuing South African midfielder Thalente Mbatha, whose performances for both Orlando Pirates and the national team have drawn significant attention.
The 24-year-old has emerged as a promising talent, showcasing his skills in domestic and international competitions.
According to Soccer Laduma, the Championship club has been scouting Mbatha during Orlando Pirates’ African Champions League matches, where he has been a standout performer.
Sunderland’s interest is said to have grown further following the player’s impactful displays for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana.
This season, Mbatha has been a key figure for Orlando Pirates, making 20 appearances across all competitions.
His contributions include three goals, underlining his attacking capabilities from midfield.
These performances have helped solidify his reputation as one of South Africa’s most reliable midfielders.
Internationally, Mbatha’s role has been equally significant.
During the recent qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), the midfielder played a pivotal part, scoring two crucial goals that helped South Africa secure their spot in the competition.
His ability to deliver on high-pressure occasions has only increased his appeal to clubs outside South Africa.
Sunderland’s interest signals a potential move to England, a step that could elevate Mbatha’s career and offer him the opportunity to test himself in one of the world’s most competitive footballing environments.
Should the deal go through, Mbatha would join a growing list of African players making their mark in English football.
Neither Sunderland nor Orlando Pirates have commented on the speculation, but a move during the January transfer window could provide the Black Cats with an additional midfield option as they look to strengthen their squad for the latter half of the season.
Mbatha’s skill set, which combines creativity, vision, and goal-scoring ability, has made him a target for Sunderland’s recruitment team.
If the transfer materializes, the South African could prove a valuable asset in the club’s push for promotion to the Premier League.
For Mbatha, a move to England would mark a significant milestone in his career, offering a chance to compete at a higher level and further establish himself as a key player on the international stage.
As the January window approaches, all eyes will be on Sunderland and Orlando Pirates to see if the highly-rated midfielder makes the leap to European football.
