Sundowns have moved quickly to secure one of the most exciting full-backs in the Betway Premiership, with a deal now agreed with Rise and Shine.
According to iDiski Times journalist Lorenz Kohler, sources have confirmed that Sundowns have reached an agreement with Polokwane City for Thabang Matuludi.
DEAL AGREED FOR THABANG MATULUDI TO MAMELODI SUNDOWNS
Personal terms have also been agreed with the Bafana Bafana international, leaving only the routine medical before the transfer can be officially announced. The club have also reportedly signed Thabo Cele.
The move marks another major step in the impressive rise of Matuludi, who has gone from playing amateur football in Limpopo to becoming a Bafana Bafana international.
Born on January 14, 1999, in Dennilton, Limpopo, Matuludi started his football journey at Kgahlanamorulana Secondary School in the Sekhukhune District.
He initially played as a winger before eventually moving into a defensive fullback role while playing for his teacher’s club in Jane Furse.
His early senior career took place in the ABC Motsepe League, where he represented amateur clubs King Born and The Dolphins.
His big breakthrough came in 2021 when Polokwane City spotted his potential and brought him into the club.
Playing in the National First Division, Matuludi became an important part of the Polokwane City defence and helped the club earn promotion to the top flight ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Since then, he has established himself as a reliable and explosive right-back in the Betway Premiership.
Matuludi’s defensive strength, work rate and ability to attack from deep have made him one of the standout fullbacks in South African football.
His performances for Polokwane City eventually earned him international recognition.
He received his first senior Bafana Bafana call-up for the 2024 COSAFA Cup, making his debut against Mozambique and playing every minute of the tournament.
His form continued to impress national team coach Hugo Broos, who included him in the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Matuludi then reached another major milestone when Broos selected him for South Africa’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Sundowns have reportedly beaten the competition for his signature, with Orlando Pirates also previously linked with the defender.
If he completes his medical without any issues, Matuludi will become the latest addition to an already star-studded Sundowns squad.
For a player who started out in grassroots football in Limpopo, his journey from the ABC Motsepe League to Bafana Bafana and now potentially Sundowns is a remarkable one.