Mamelodi Sundowns have received a major new offer for rising star Kutlwano Letlhaku, as interest in the teenage winger intensifies amid growing European attention.
Letlhaku, 19, has been on the radar of overseas clubs ever since his impressive displays in both domestic and international competitions. The talented youngster, who graduated from the School of Excellence in July 2023, joined Sundowns as one of the country’s brightest prospects. His rapid rise saw him promoted from the DStv Diski Challenge to the senior squad under former coach Manqoba Mngqithi.
Since then, Letlhaku has continued to impress. He played a crucial role in South Africa’s U20 campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, helping the team secure qualification for the U20 FIFA World Cup set to take place in Chile later this year. His profile further soared following his standout performances at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where he represented Masandawana on the global stage.
Now, a second formal bid — reportedly worth up to R30 million with performance-related incentives — has been tabled by an unnamed Portuguese club, after Sundowns rejected an earlier offer. Should the move go through, it would mark the most significant transfer of a South African teenager since Benni McCarthy’s groundbreaking move to Ajax Amsterdam nearly three decades ago.
Sources close to the matter suggest that this could be the final offer from the European side. Discussions have already taken place between the club and Sundowns management, with Letlhaku’s family and representatives viewing the move as a critical step in his development.
Letlhaku is believed to have formally requested a transfer once again — reportedly his fifth such request. His agent, Centre Circle’s Mathew Moore, has publicly supported the move, emphasizing the importance of early international exposure. Moore drew comparisons to South African legends Quinton Fortune, Steven Pienaar, and McCarthy, all of whom left for Europe in their teenage years.
“After a certain point, staying too long in South Africa can limit a player’s growth,” said Moore. “Unfortunately, Kutlwano is reaching that stage.”
Despite the mounting speculation, Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has attempted to cool transfer talk. Cardoso reaffirmed that Letlhaku, alongside fellow young talent Siyabonga Mabena, remains central to the club’s long-term plans.
“Kutlwano is one of the future stars of Mamelodi Sundowns,” said Cardoso. “Patience is key as we safeguard their development.”
Since making his senior debut in March 2024, Letlhaku has recorded three goals and six assists in 20 appearances for Sundowns — a testament to his growing influence on the pitch.
As the saga unfolds, all eyes are on Chloorkop. Will Sundowns let go of their brightest gem, or will the teenager be made to wait longer for his European dream?
