Who The Player Is:
Themba Zwane, by many , has been one of the most outstanding players in the DStv Premiership for the last 10 years. The Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder has gained wide acclaim for his consistency for both club and country that he remains an integral part of both club and country at the age of 33.
What Transfermarkt Says:
Zwane, as things stand, is Sundowns' seventh most valuable player and 12th overall in the league, which speaks volumes about just how impactful the Tembisa-born star is. According to Transfermarkt, Zwanes current market value sits at €1 million (±R20.6m). This is a far cry from the €100 000 (±R2 million) valuation he had when he was signed from then Vodacom League (Now ABC Motsepe League) outfit Vardos FC at the time.
Player's contract status:
As revealed by the Siya crew in June last year, Mamelodi Sundowns were preparing a new contract for Zwane with his contract at the time having finished at the end of June last year. Sources close to the Chloorkop outfit confirmed at the time that a new two-year deal was discussed to hold onto Zwane beyond the 11 and a half years that he has already been on the club's books.
Player's Buy Out Clause:
It is unclear whether Zwane's current deal has a buy-out clause; however, as Sundowns most influential players, you can imagine that Zwane's contract would include a hefty buy-out clause to avoid a similar situation to that of Keagan Dolly in 2016 when European clubs matched his buy-out clause at the time , which saw him depart Chloorkop.
How Much In SA And Where?:
Zwane has been with Sundowns for the past 12 years and remains crucial to the clubs ambitions, making a local move somewhat impossible. However in the rare instance that he were to make a move locally, he would have two realistic destinations; Kaizer Chiefs or Orlando Pirates.
How Much In Europe And Where?:
There was talk of interest from the UAE in Zwane's services several seasons ago, although nothing came of it at the time. It was also thought that his former coach Pitso Mosimane would express an interest in signing him at either Al Ahly or Al Ahli Jeddah in Saudi Arabia although nothing came of the talk with Sundowns not willing to lose their key man. At 33, a move to Europe for Zwane at this point is unlikely, meaning he will likely go down as a cult hero at Sundowns where he could be given a role beyond his playing career when he does decide to hang up his boots.
Ideal Dream Move:
Zwane has shown that he has what it takes to perform at the highest level for both club and country. As one of the most technically gifted players in the country, he would be able to make the cut in a Ligue 1 or even Spanish LaLiga if he were a few years younger. However, Zwane has enjoyed an impeccable career as one of the most decorated players in terms of trophies in the local game.
