Mamelodi Sundowns Set to Secure Fawaaz Basadien Signing After Club World Cup Campaign

Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly close to finalising the signing of Stellenbosch FC vice-captain Fawaaz Basadien, following the club’s successful showing at the FIFA Club World Cup.

Despite having access to a special transfer window before the Club World Cup, Sundowns opted not to sign any new players for the tournament. The technical team chose to reward the players who had contributed to their qualification, giving them the opportunity to compete on the world stage.

With their Club World Cup campaign in the USA now complete, the focus has shifted back to strengthening the squad for the upcoming domestic season. Basadien, a highly-rated left-back from the Western Cape, is believed to be top of Sundowns’ shopping list.

Sources close to the deal suggest that the 28-year-old is likely to sign a three-year contract with the Tshwane giants, with the option of an additional year. Basadien has also attracted interest from both Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, but indications are that he favours a move to Sundowns.

The potential arrival of Basadien raises interesting questions about competition for places in the left-back position. Divine Lunga was one of Sundowns’ standout performers during the Club World Cup, impressively keeping Aubrey Modiba out of the starting line-up throughout the tournament. Lunga will no doubt be eager to maintain his spot when the new season kicks off.

Basadien’s signing could also trigger player movement in the opposite direction. Terrence Mashego, who has found game time hard to come by, is believed to be a candidate for a move back to Stellenbosch FC. Sundowns are understood to have exercised the one-year extension on Mashego’s contract, but a transfer remains a strong possibility.

As of now, Sundowns have not issued an official statement regarding the transfer, but all signs point to Basadien becoming the latest addition to the star-studded squad at Chloorkop.