Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Thembinkosi Lorch has snubbed interest from a Saudi Arabia club, with his Chloorkop exit ‘confirmed’. Jeddah SC, a first division side in Saudi, registered interest in the talented winger-cum-midfielder.
The club was eager to snap up the skilful attacker on a five month deal as they push for promotion to the Saudi Pro League.
However, the former Orlando Pirates is said to have resisted advances from the club. Coincidentally, on Wednesday, Lorch was not at Chloorkop for training with the rest of his Sundowns teammates.
It had earlier been anticipated that he would make a move, with Kaizer Chiefs pushing to sign him. However, their efforts were unsuccessful with the two clubs not agreeing on a transfer fee.
The 31-year-old made 27 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring seven goals. He joined the club on deadline day of the January transfer window in 2024. However, this season, he has only featured in six matches for Sundowns and is keen to increase his playing time.
HOW LORCH’S SUNDOWNS EXIT WAS CONFIRMED
Upon enquiry, Masandawana reportedly told the Saudi side that an agreement had been reached to loan out the player. It was further indicated that ‘the deal’ was now subject to a routine medical.
Lorch has been strongly linked with Rulani Mokwena’s Wydad Athletic Club. Interestingly, the Casablanca giants still have one slot for a foreigner ahead of the closure of the transfer window on Friday.
Lorch could now reunite with Mokwena in Morocco subject to a routine medical. The transfer window in Morocco closes on Friday 31 January 2025.
At Wydad, he will also team up with South African striker Cassius Mailula who is also on loan from MLS side Toronto FC.
Meanwhile, Rushine De Reuck, who has also been struggling for game time at Sundowns, has already been unveiled by Israeli outfit Maccabi Petah Tikva. He joined the club on a loan deal that keeps him in Israel until the end of the season.
Lesiba Nku, now at Stellenbosch FC on a permanent deal, also had his exit confirmed. Versatile midfielder Lebohang Maboe also moved to Tshwane neighbours SuperSport United, a move announced by Matsatsantsa.
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