Mamelodi Sundowns have been a dominant force in local football, putting their key players in the international shop window.
After generating so much interest for their players from clubs abroad last season, it’s almost a miracle Sundowns held on.
Sundowns players attracting interest abroad
In the last 18 months the likes Teboho Mokoena, Khuliso Mudau, Bathusi Aubaas, Lucas Ribeiro and Iqraam Rayners. Those being players who are part of a Bafana Bafana side that is in resurgence, bar Ribeiro. The Brazilian has been linked with a move to Greece as well as English Championship side Burnley so far. Now according to the latest, it may be getting increasingly difficult for Sundowns to hold on to his services,
Ribeiro has continued to dazzle for Sundowns in local competitions this season, only heightening his reputation. He has had a staggering 27 goal contributions in the 35 games he has played in all competitions so far this season. This has seen a massive fan outcry from South Africans, urging that he be naturalised as a citizen. This in an effort to integrate him into the Bafana Bafana set up.
Lille interested in signing Ribeiro
Now according to Soccer-Laduma, that form has also seen French Ligue 1 side Lille show interest in Ribeiro. It is also believed that their advances could be too enticing for Sundowns to refuse!
“This is new interest. There are Lille representatives who have enquired about him. They have shown serious interest in Ribeiro and the team cannot ignore that. But you know there are other clubs who have shown interest before and the club is just waiting to hear from all those teams on the way forward,” said the source.
Opportunity to impress Brazil?
Lille were recently knocked out of the UEFA Champions League in the round of 16 by Dortmund, 3-2 on aggregate and are currently sixth on the Ligue 1 table. This could provide a platform for Ribeiro to play at a higher level and maybe fight himself onto the radar of the Brazilian national team.
How much should Masandawana sell him for?
Sundowns fans, should your club accept a huge transfer fee for Ribeiro from Lille? How much should his asking price be? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab. Or by emailing [email protected] or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
