Wydad Casablanca Make Final Push to Sign Thembinkosi Lorch Permanently from Mamelodi Sundowns
Wydad Athletic Club are making a last-ditch effort to secure the permanent services of Thembinkosi Lorch from Mamelodi Sundowns, following the winger’s impressive loan spell with the Moroccan giants. Reports emerging from Morocco indicate that Wydad are determined to wrap up the deal before time runs out.
Lorch, who joined Wydad on loan earlier this year, quickly established himself as a key player in Mohamed Amine Benhachem’s squad. His standout performances, particularly during the FIFA Club World Cup, have left the club’s management convinced that he is worth the investment.
According to Moroccan outlet Infosports.ma, Wydad officials have scheduled a decisive meeting with Lorch’s agent in Casablanca on Wednesday. The goal is to finalise terms that would keep the South African winger at the club on a permanent basis.
The urgency behind the deal stems from a critical clause in Lorch’s loan agreement. Initially, Wydad had an option to make the move permanent for $500,000 (approximately R10 million). However, with the deadline of June 30 having passed and after reviewing Lorch’s growing influence on the pitch, Sundowns have reportedly doubled their asking price to $1 million (around R20 million).
This price hike has placed additional pressure on Wydad’s board, who are keen to avoid a repeat of their recent disappointment with Cassius Mailula. The Moroccan club failed to retain Mailula, who returned to Toronto FC after his loan spell ended.
For Benhachem, keeping Lorch is seen as crucial for sustaining the team’s positive momentum heading into the new season. Lorch has been instrumental in improving Wydad’s attacking play, and losing him now would be a major setback.
With time running out and negotiations reaching a critical stage, the next 48 hours will determine whether Wydad can meet Sundowns’ new valuation and secure one of their most impactful players, or risk losing him amid growing interest from other clubs.
