Sundowns beat PSL rivals to signing of top-rated defender

Mamelodi Sundowns have successfully signed highly-rated teenage left-back Teboho Lekhatla from Motsepe Foundation Championship side Real Native FC, previously known as Casric Stars.

The promising defender, who turns 19 later this month, is coming off a remarkable season where he made 25 league appearances. He has been a first-team regular since his senior debut in the 2024/25 season.

Lekhatla’s performances have not gone unnoticed. After being named the Motsepe Foundation Championship Young Player of the Season in his debut campaign, he continued to impress, earning the attention of both Sundowns and the national U20 team selectors.

Sundowns hand defender long-term deal

While he has officially joined the reigning African champions, Lekhatla will spend the 2026/27 season on loan at the University of Pretoria (AmaTuks) to gain more first-team experience and continue his development.

According to iDiski Times, the player has signed a long-term contract with Sundowns, with the season-long loan to the second-tier club already finalised.

Sundowns have been quiet in this current transfer window with the defender their fourth signing following the arrivals of Antonio van Wyk from SV Ried, Austria, Siyanda Ndlovu (Golden Arrows) and forward Cassius Mailula who joined as a free agent.