Amidst swirling transfer reports linking in-form defender Khuliso Mudau with a move away from Mamelodi Sundowns, head coach Rulani Mokwena has weighed in on the matter.
The skillful wing-back; Mudau came on as a second-half substitute when Sundowns beat Tshwane rivals SuperSport United 2-0 at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Wednesday night in the DStv Premiership.
A few weeks ago, reports emerged that Mudau has attracted interest from English Premier League side Burnley FC. This comes after his impressive displays for Sundowns and Bafana Bafana.
Mudau has been pivotal for Masandawana as they continue their rich vein of form in the 2023/24 season. They became the first team in the PSL to win their opening nine league games and sit comfortably at the summit of the log with 27 points.
The Brazilians have also lifted the inaugural African Football League [AFL] trophy after beating Wydad Casablanca 3-2 on aggregate in the final.
‘Sailor’ as he’s affectionately known, has made 16 appearances in all competitions for Sundowns and scored one goal this season.
Mudau has been with the Chloorkop-based side for four seasons after being signed from Black Leopards at the start of the 2020/21 season.
And with Mudau reported to be a wanted man, his coach Mokwena has hinted that he is reluctant to let the versatile defender depart. However, Mokwena has not ruled out a potential exit for Mudau, emphasising that the club is open to considering offers that could facilitate the player’s growth and development.
RULANI MOKWENA COMMENTS ON KHULISO MUDAU’S BURNLEY INTEREST
“The Sundowns coach says ‘Sailor’ is going nowhere, because I’m very selfish and we need our best players’,” Mokwena said.
“We are not a selling club and that’s very clear but the human being in me understands that life is about growth and there’s targets.
“It’s the same way I dealt with Cassius Mailula’s situation, as difficult as it was for us to let go of Cassius when there are big opportunities, there’s a possibility for growth and it makes sense for all parties involved, Sundowns included.
“I can’t entertain it [exit talks] at the moment because it’s just talks, there is nothing in the table but he’s an unbelievable player. He’s an incredible human being, kind-hearted, and very important to our team.
“So it’s difficult to entertain such talks because it’s just talks and there’s nothing concrete.
“And if I answer it as Sundowns coach, I would say hands off. It’s the same way you go to Manchester City and you ask for Kyle Walker. It’s very difficult.”
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