Mamelodi Sundowns FC have increased their financial offer to sign Bafana Bafana international Thabang Matuludi from Polokwane City this week. The reigning African champions are pushing to solve a defensive shortage by landing the 27-year-old right-back, who is also a target for league rivals Orlando Pirates.
A source within the Chloorkop club confirmed the escalated bid. "The club has submitted a new offer for the services of the player," the source said. "They have now increased the offer by a few million." Sundowns are reportedly optimistic a deal can be finalised in the coming days. This move comes as the club prepares for the new season after finishing second in the final 2025 Premier Soccer League table, just one point behind champions Orlando Pirates.
Why Sundowns are targeting a right-back
Mamelodi Sundowns' pursuit of Thabang Matuludi is driven by an urgent need for cover in defence. The club is currently dealing with injuries to two key right-backs. First-choice option Khuliso Mudau is sidelined, and his deputy Zuko Mdunyelwa suffered a concerning injury recently. Mdunyelwa was stretchered off during a Betway Premiership match against Milford FC at Loftus Versfeld. This leaves experienced utility player Thapelo Morena as the squad's only recognised option in that position. Securing a proven performer like Matuludi would provide immediate depth and quality. Fans can track the team's availability on our dedicated injuries page.
Who is Thabang Matuludi?
Thabang Matuludi is a 27-year-old defender who has established himself as a consistent performer for Polokwane City. He has made 72 appearances for the club, contributing six goals and several assists from the right-back position. His form earned him a place with the national team, where he travelled with the Bafana Bafana squad to the 2026 FIFA World Cup as cover for the injured Khuliso Mudau. Despite his pedigree, Matuludi has not featured for Polokwane City so far this season, and his future at the club remains unresolved. His experience and attacking output from defence make him an attractive target for top sides.
How does this affect the title race?
The transfer tussle adds another layer to the fierce rivalry between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. Both clubs have shown concrete interest in Matuludi. Strengthening a problem position could be significant for Sundowns as they aim to reclaim the league title. Last season, they amassed 68 points from 30 games, with a record of 20 wins, 8 draws, and just 2 losses. Their potent attack scored 57 goals while conceding only 21, giving them a formidable +36 goal difference. You can follow the evolving battle at the top on our standings section. Adding a player of Matuludi's calibre would bolster a squad already built on solid defensive foundations.
What happens next for the deal?
Negotiations between Mamelodi Sundowns and Polokwane City are now at a critical stage following the improved bid. The source indicated the club hopes to conclude an agreement within days. If successful, Matuludi would join a squad with high expectations after a near-miss in the league. The defender's potential arrival would offer manager Rhulani Mokwena more tactical flexibility and cover during a long campaign. His integration would be a key subplot as the team prepares for its upcoming fixtures, which are listed on our fixtures schedule. The final detail of the transfer fee, however, remains undisclosed by the clubs involved.
