Mamelodi Sundowns FC are reportedly targeting Colombian defensive midfielder Josen Escobar as a potential transfer. The 21-year-old is viewed as a long-term option to fill the void left by the tragic passing of Jayden Adams earlier this year.
The Brazilians are pursuing a permanent deal for the América de Cali player. Escobar, a Colombia U23 international, is valued at around R37 million by his current club. No official confirmation from either Sundowns or the Colombian side had been issued at the time of reporting. The club's pursuit comes as they sit 2nd in the Premier Soccer League, having scored 13 goals and conceded just five in their opening five matches.
Who is Josen Escobar?
Josen Escobar is a central defensive midfielder who has already made 117 appearances for América de Cali. In those matches, he has registered four goals and seven assists, establishing himself as a key figure in the team. The young player also had a brief spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq, featuring in eight games. That club is notable as the parent side of South African winger Mohau Nkota, who has since returned to the PSL on a season-long loan with Orlando Pirates. Escobar's profile fits the model of a young, technically gifted player with significant first-team experience that Sundowns often seeks.
Why are Sundowns looking for a midfielder?
The need in midfield stems from two recent departures. The most profound was the untimely death of Jayden Adams in Cape Town shortly after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. More recently, the club parted ways with Portuguese midfielder Miguel Reisinho. That move created an available slot within Sundowns' foreign player quota, opening a pathway for a new international signing. Reinforcing the squad is a priority for a team with a recent form of WWWDW and a strong goal difference of +8. Fans can track the evolving squad composition on the official squad page.
What is the state of the transfer deal?
Mamelodi Sundowns are understood to be aiming for a permanent acquisition of Escobar, which sets them apart from other interested clubs. Reports indicate that Mexican side Santos Laguna and an unnamed Bulgarian club are also monitoring the player, but they are exploring loan arrangements. The significant valuation placed by América de Cali suggests any deal will require a substantial financial commitment from the Tshwane giants. Transfer expert Pipe Sierra noted, "Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly targeting Colombian defensive midfielder Josen Escobar as they look to fill the void left by the tragic passing of Jayden Adams."
How does this fit with the current season?
The potential addition aligns with Sundowns' ambitions to maintain their strong start to the campaign. Currently on 13 points from five games, the team is well-positioned in the standings. Integrating a new midfielder during a positive run could provide depth and fresh options for the coaching staff. The club's defensive solidity, conceding only five goals so far, is an area a player like Escobar could help maintain. Supporters can follow the team's progress and upcoming matches via the fixtures schedule. The final detail is Escobar's current contract status with América de Cali, which remains undisclosed.
