Mamelodi Sundowns are facing a key decision on the future of record-breaking striker Peter Shalulile, who is now in the final year of his contract at Chloorkop.
The Namibian international joined the Brazilians in 2020 from Highlands Park on a four-year deal with an option for a further year, which the club has already exercised.
Read: Chiefs’ Positive Start Highlights Squad Reshaping As Phiri Waits
That means the 31-year-old will officially be out of contract at the end of the 2025/26 season, unless fresh terms are agreed, and he will be eligible to sign a pre-contract with any club in January – six months before the expiry of his current deal.
Shalulile was one of the major talking points during the recent transfer window, amid speculation over a possible switch to North Africa.
But after weeks of uncertainty, he chose to remain at Sundowns and pledged to fight for his place under Miguel Cardoso, despite fierce competition for a starting spot.
“For now, I won’t lie to you guys. I’m back,” said Shalulile, speaking through the club’s media department.
“Things didn’t go well. We were discussing and negotiating about paperwork and all that. But I decided to call the chairman and I told him, rather let me come back and enter my experience and fight for my position.”
The striker’s decision proved pivotal as he etched his name into South African football history last month.
Shalulile etched his name into the history books when he overtook Siyabonga Nomvethe’s all-time PSL scoring record of 129 goals, slotting home a decisive penalty in a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch to move to 130.
Sources close to the club have indicated that Sundowns are expected to open talks with the player before the end of 2025 about a possible contract extension, which could keep him in the colours of the Tshwane giants beyond next season.
“Sundowns know how important Peter has been for the club over the years. The plan is to sit down with him and his camp before the end of the year to see if an agreement can be reached. At his age, it won’t be an easy negotiation, but the club values his contribution and experience,” said the source.
Read: Chiefs Leadership Sets Sights On Multiple Challenges Ahead!
As things stand, Cardoso has his top striker available as Sundowns aim to maintain their grip in the Betway Premiership and finally capture a second CAF Champions League crown.
But with Shalulile entering the twilight of his career, the decision on whether to extend his stay or plan for the future could shape the club’s long-term ambitions.
Photo by Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
