Mamelodi Sundowns have completed the signing of midfielder Thabo Cele on a free transfer. The Pretoria-based club reached an agreement with the 29-year-old South African international this week securing his services after his contract with Kaizer Chiefs was terminated by mutual consent on Monday.

Cele joins Masandawana on a two-year deal that includes an option for a further extension. His arrival is intended to add depth and experience to a midfield that is already powering the club's strong start to the season. Sundowns currently sit first in the Premier Soccer League with 16 points from six games, has a record of five wins and one draw. Their recent form reads WWWWD, and they hold a three-point lead over rivals Orlando Pirates.

Why Sundowns moved for Cele

Head coach Miguel Cardoso has a strong core of midfielders including Teboho Mokoena, Marcelo Allende, and Bathusi Aubaas. However, the passing of Jayden Adams after the 2026 FIFA World Cup created a need for additional cover in the engine room. Thabo Cele provides a ready-made solution with extensive experience. He spent a season and a half at Kaizer Chiefs after joining in January 2025, where he became a fan favourite despite being sidelined following the arrival of Tanzania international Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko from AZAM FC. Cele was left out of Chiefs' pre-season tour to Spain, paving the way for his exit.

Cele's career path to Chloorkop

Before his time in Soweto, Cele built his career largely in Europe. He played for Portuguese sides Real SC, Benfica B, and Cova Piedade before moving on to club football in Poland and Russia. This varied experience across different leagues is seen as a valuable asset for Sundowns, especially as they compete on multiple fronts. You can view the full squad composition on our squad page.

How the midfield shapes up

With Cele's signing, Cardoso's options in the centre of the park now include Sphelele Mkhulise, Gomolemo Kekana, and Tsiki Ntsabeleng. This competition is vital for a team that has scored 15 goals while conceding only six, giving them a healthy +9 goal difference at the top of the standings. Cele is not the only new face arriving on a free transfer this summer, following defender Deano van Rooyen's move from Orlando Pirates. These acquisitions show a strategic approach to strengthening the group without transfer fees.

The deal for Thabo Cele is officially a two-year contract with the club holding an option to extend it further.