Mamelodi Sundowns change hard-line stance on Lucas Ribeiro

Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly ready to return to the negotiating table regarding the transfer of playmaker Lucas Ribeiro.

Sundowns are believed to have turned down an offer of over R61 million for Ribeiro from Qatar SC, which has frustrated the player, leading to his statement on Thursday which said he had been denied a chance to join a better paying club.

Ribeiro has since filed his case at the FIFA Tribunal, seeking to terminate his Sundowns contract, which runs until 2028, because he feels he is being denied a transfer when the interested club has paid more than his valuation.

The Brazilian star is valued at €2.5 million [about R51.1 million] by Transfermarkt but Qatar SC are believed to have paid US$3.5 million [R61.7 million], which Sundowns have not accepted as they are seeking more.

Why have Sundowns changed their position?

However, according to FARPost, Sundowns are ready to change their hardline stance and get back into negotiation with the Qatari club even though they have insisted that they will only sanction the sale of any player once all parties are satisfied.

“Mamelodi Sundowns has received enquiries, particularly after the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, from a few prominent football clubs that have expressed an interest in acquiring the services of certain Sundowns players,” read a statement from Sundowns in response to Ribeiro.

“Mamelodi Sundowns is committed to continue with these discussions and negotiations, as part of its policy and deep commitment to advance the interests of the players and the club, as well as the fulfilment of the objectives and interests of all parties.”

Ribeiro was voted PSL Player of the Year last season after leading Sundowns to the league title and also won the Golden Boot. He has so far scored 37 goals and provided 23 assists in 88 games during his two years at the club.