Wydad Athletic Club secures preliminary agreement with Mamelodi Sundowns for South African midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch transfer

Wydad Athletic Club has reached a preliminary agreement with Mamelodi Sundowns for the transfer of South African midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch, marking a significant step toward fulfilling the wishes of its fanbase.

The Casablanca-based club has been in pursuit of Lorch following his impressive spell with Wydad during a loan stint, during which he delivered standout performances both in the Moroccan top flight and on the global stage at the FIFA Club World Cup.

The 30-year-old’s consistent impact on the pitch has made him a top transfer priority for the club’s hierarchy this summer.

Wydad has secured the approval of both the player and his parent club, Sundowns, after a prolonged negotiation process that was initially hindered by financial hurdles.

The South African champions were reportedly firm in their valuation of Lorch, which made the discussions particularly challenging.

Despite the complexities, Wydad president Hicham Aït Menna took a central role in driving the deal forward.

His involvement was crucial in navigating Sundowns’ demands and ultimately bringing both parties to a common ground.

Sources close to the matter describe the negotiations as lengthy but productive, culminating in a mutual understanding that now sets the stage for the deal’s finalization.

“The club has reached an agreement in principle with Mamelodi Sundowns and the player,” the source noted. “The discussions took time due to the financial conditions set by the South African side, but Aït Menna’s determination helped seal the provisional deal.”

Lorch’s impact during his time in Morocco has not gone unnoticed.

Wydad supporters have been vocal in their admiration for the midfielder’s vision, technique, and work rate, and have consistently called for the club to retain him on a permanent basis.

His performances during the Club World Cup in particular earned widespread praise, as he demonstrated an ability to perform at the highest level against international opposition.

The deal, once completed, would represent a significant reinforcement for Wydad ahead of the upcoming domestic and continental campaigns.

Final details of the agreement, including the duration of the contract and transfer fee, are expected to be confirmed in the coming days, pending official announcements from both clubs.