Mamelodi Sundowns set sights on Argentine midfielder

Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly showing strong interest in Argentine midfielder Mateo Tanlongo, who is currently contracted to Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon.

Tanlongo, 22, is a defensive midfielder who has spent recent seasons on loan after failing to secure a regular spot in Sporting’s first team. Born in Argentina, he also holds an Italian passport due to his heritage.

His career began at the esteemed youth academy of Rosario Central in Argentina, where he made his senior debut in 2021 as a 17-year-old. After making 35 appearances over two years, he moved to Sporting on a free transfer.

Mateo Tanlongo playing for Sporting Libson. Image: Imago

Mateo Tanlongo’s unsettled stay at Sporting

The Portuguese club rated him so highly that they included a €60 million release clause in his contract, which runs until 2027.

However, his time in Lisbon has not gone as planned. Tanlongo has featured in just 14 matches for Sporting’s senior side in three years and was even demoted to their reserve team last season.

🚨 𝐑𝐔𝐌𝐎𝐔𝐑! 👆

Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Argentine midfielder Mateo Tanlongo. 👀

The Brazilians are said to be in advanced negotiations with Sporting CP as they look to complete a deal during this transfer window. ⏳

Source: Central 90… pic.twitter.com/SxyxKAwsBy
— SoccerBeat (@SoccerBeatZA) July 9, 2026

A series of loan spells followed. A move to Danish club FC Copenhagen was cut short after a single appearance, leading to a switch to Rio Ave in Portugal, where he played 12 games.

Argentine midfielder Mateo Tanlongo of Sporting CP is a target of Mamelodi Sundowns. Image: Imago

For the 2024/25 season, he was sent to Cypriot side Pafos, where he finally found consistent game time, making 28 appearances and scoring his first two professional goals.

Who would the Argentine replace at Sundowns?

Capped by Argentina at the Under-20 level, Tanlongo is a player who has yet to fully realise the potential he once showed.

Mateo Tanlongo in action for Argentina U20 against Nigeria. Photo: Imago

His profile differs from Sundowns’ recent foreign acquisitions, who have typically been established first-team regulars at their previous clubs.

Should he join, Tanlongo would occupy one of the club’s foreign player spots. This has led to speculation that he could be a replacement for Portuguese midfielder Miguel Reisinho, who struggled to make an impact last season. Alternatively, his arrival could be linked to rumours that Marcelo Allende may be departing Chloorkop.

While the deal is yet to be confirmed, the interest from Sundowns is clear, and fans will be watching closely to see if the Argentine makes the move to the Premier Soccer League.