Mamelodi Sundowns' Brazilian forward, Lucas Ribeiro Costa, is reportedly in advanced talks with Fluminense, potentially signaling a return to his home country, according to the reports from Brazil.
Ribeiro, 26, has been a pivotal player for Sundowns since joining in 2023, contributing significantly with 37 goals and 23 assists in 88 games across all competitions.
His impressive performances, including a notable showing at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup where he scored the Goal of the Tournament, attracted widespread interest from clubs in various regions, including Qatar, France, Turkey, and now Brazil.
Reports from Brazil indicate that Fluminense both considered one of the “giants” in Brazilian football and part of the esteemed G-12 group of top clubs, are closing in on the PSL Footballer of the Season nominee.
Fluminense are reportedly looking at him as a potential replacement for Renato Augusto, who left the club in May.
LUCAS RIBEIRO LEAVES SUNDOWNS CAMP AMID FLUMINENSE LINKS
Meanwhile, Ribeiro, who has a contract with Sundowns until June 2028, is said to have also left the club’s camp as he’s closing in on return to his native country.
Ribeiro apparently left all transfer discussions to his club despite links from various clubs including the strong interest, particularly from a Qatari club reportedly willing to meet Sundowns' R52 million valuation.
Sundowns, for their part, have reportedly turned down offers from other African clubs, including Egyptian side Pyramids FC, indicating a preference for a transfer outside the continent if Ribeiro were to move.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Ribeiro remains a key figure for Sundowns or embarks on a new chapter in his native Brazil.
