The transfer of Mamelodi Sundowns’ trio Neo Maema, Terrence Mashego, and Kegan Johannes to Siwelele FC has hit a snag.
Siwelele, who recently acquired SuperSport United’s Betway Premiership club, were in negotiations with Sundowns over potential loan deals for the three experienced players.
Sundowns even instructed the players not to report for training when the team resumed preparations last week following a break granted after the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The expectation was that the deals would be finalised, allowing the players to join Siwelele.
However, it now appears that Sundowns will need to explore other options after the two clubs failed to reach an agreement.
Reports suggest that Maema may transfer to Tanzanian giants Simba SC, who recently signed former Sundowns player Rushine De Reuck. This casts doubt on his potential move to Siwelele. If all goes as planned, he is expected to transfer after participating in the upcoming CHAN tournament, where he is set to captain Bafana Bafana.
The 29-year-old has had limited game time at Sundowns, with just six starts and 11 substitute appearances in the 2024/25 season and has been part of the matchday squad 29 times out of 54.
WHY SUNDOWNS’ TRIO’S MOVE MAY HAVE COLLAPSED
Mashego, on the other hand, is on the radar of Sekhukhune United, who have previously attempted to get him on loan. He was also linked to Stellenbosch FC previously, but the Winelands club has since signed Turan Mantov, a left-back from Azerbaijan.
The former Cape Town City defender has struggled for minutes at Chloorkop. He started only seven matches last season, with six appearances off the bench. Sundowns’ coach Miguel Cardoso favoured Divine Lunga and Aubrey Modiba at left back. The club has added Bafana left back Fawaaz Basadien from Stellies, creating competition and questioning the need for another player in that position.
Siwelele currently has cover at left back, including Neo Rapoo, a recent AFCON Under-20 winner, and Aphiwe Baliti, who was a target for Kaizer Chiefs. Veteran Lyle Lakay is also available and looks set to have his contract renewed.
Johannes also struggled to secure a starting position at the Brazilians after a challenging first season. With limited appearances and injury setbacks, Johannes remains behind established defenders Khuliso Mudau and Thapelo Morena in the right-back hierarchy.
Siwelele have national team right back Nyiko Mobbie and Yandisa Mfolozi in his position.
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