Mamelodi Sundowns Beat Kaizer Chiefs to Signing of Congolese Striker Fiston Mayele
Mamelodi Sundowns have reportedly secured a major transfer coup by winning the race to sign Congolese striker Fiston Mayele, beating rivals Kaizer Chiefs and several international clubs to his signature.
According to Africafoot, the Betway Premiership champions have struck a deal with Egypt’s Pyramids FC to bring the 30-year-old to Chloorkop at the end of the 2024/25 season. The deal is said to be worth €2.2 million (approximately R45 million), with Mayele set to pen a three-year contract with the DStv Premiership giants.
Mayele, a proven goal-scorer on the continent, made headlines when he scored against Sundowns in the CAF Champions League final. Despite a quieter domestic season with just six goals and two assists, his record of 41 goals since joining Pyramids has clearly impressed the Sundowns hierarchy. His ability to shine on the big stage seems to have sealed the deal.
The move is expected to shake up Sundowns’ attacking options and could have implications for current strikers Peter Shalulile and Lebo Mothiba. Shalulile has struggled to replicate his previous form, while Mothiba has yet to fully settle into the squad following his January arrival.
Mayele’s arrival will also pose a challenge in terms of the club’s foreign player quota. With Marcelo Allende, Abdelmounaim Boutouil, and Junior Mendieta already on the books, Sundowns may be forced to deregister or loan out a foreign player to make space for the Congolese international.
The striker had attracted strong interest from Kaizer Chiefs, who are in the midst of rebuilding under a new technical team. Saudi Arabian clubs Al Riyadh, Al Kholood, and Al Khaleej were also reportedly keen on luring him to the Middle East. However, it appears that Sundowns have managed to outmaneuver all suitors in the race for one of Africa’s most clinical forwards.
Mayele’s imminent arrival signals Sundowns’ intent to remain dominant domestically and continue challenging for continental honours. With the Brazilians already preparing for another ambitious season, this signing could be the boost they need to stay ahead of the chasing pack.
