The impressive Mamelodi Sundowns star attacker Cassius Mailula has been linked with a move to Toronto FC, FARPost can reveal.
Mailula, who was a vital cog for Mamelodi Sundowns last season, is on the verge of becoming the third Bafana Bafana star in MLS.
So far, Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Njabulo Blom ply their trade in the league for Minnesota United and St Louis City, respectively. Katlego “Tsiki” Ntsabeleng plays for FC Dallas.
Initially, the 22-year-old was said to be heading to one of two Major League Soccer [MLS] sides, one being Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami.
Mamelodi Sundowns chose not to reveal Cassius Mailula’s next club, at least until formalities are completed.
“Mamelodi Sundowns has been in discussions with a North American football club that expressed interest in acquiring the services of Cassius Mailula,” read the club’s statement.
“Sundowns is proud of Cassius Mailula. He joined the Mamelodi Sundowns Academy as a 13-year-old and was developed and nurtured by the Sundowns coaches.
“Mamelodi Sundowns will make further announcements concerning Cassius Mailula in due course.”
However, it has emerged that Toronto FC is his likely next home as he bids farewell to the DStv Champions after an impressive season in SA’s topflight.
WHO ARE TORONTO FC?
Toronto FC is is a professional soccer club based in Toronto, Canada. The ambitious outfit is currently coached by Terence Dunfield, albeit on interim basis.
They compete in Major League Soccer [MLS] as a member of the Eastern Conference having joined in 2007. The Reds as Toronto is fondly known were founded in 2006.
Toronto FC stands as the first Canadian-based franchise in the lucrative Major League Soccer. However, the club hasn’t fared well in the 2023 season as they currently sit on 14th position.
They have 19 points on their tally, one point ahead of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami who anchor the standings.
Toronto FC will hope to get some inspiration from Cassius Mailula who was scoring in his maiden PSL season. Last season, he scored nine goals for Bafana Ba Style in the DStv Premiership in 17 league matches.
Overally, Mailula managed 15 goals across all competitions for Mamelodi Sundowns last season.
His exceptional performances earned him at national team call up, as his scintillating rise continued.
Cassius Mailula stands out as one of Mamelodi Sundowns to junior products. And his move to North America is likely to earn them hefty amounts.
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