News coming out of Mamelodi Sundowns suggests the club may be prepared to make a record-breaking offer for Bafana Bafana defender Fawaaz Basadien as they face mounting foreign competition for his signature.
As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, the Brazilians had already made an offer which Stellenbosch FC found to be a good one for the purchase of the left-back. However, Masandawana now faces the challenge of fending off additional interest in the defender from outside of the PSL.
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Insiders close to Sundowns have indicated that North African clubs have entered the race for Basadien's services, driving up his price.
"Sundowns are aware of interest from other clubs including from North Africa and that's why it's believed that they are raising their offer to Stellenbosch FC. It could be the highest payment for a local player so far. They are still interested in signing him and will push for the final bid," the source told Soccer Laduma.
Meanwhile, a second source with reliable information close to Sundowns discussed a new offer.
"They are willing to go as far as between R20 million to R25 million to get him. They are aware that North African countries pay very well and that's why even they are asking Wydad Casablanca for around R20 million for Thembinkosi Lorch. And apparently they are also ready to make it R25 million, plus players as well, to Stellenbosch FC to get Basadien," the second insider revealed.
The 28-year-old defender has been a model of consistency since joining Stellenbosch from Moroka Swallows. He has featured in a tremendous amount of games for over three seasons—remarkably playing nearly all matches in each campaign—while contributing goals during his time at the club too.
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When contacted by Soccer Laduma, Stellenbosch FC media officer Liam Bekker maintained the club's official stance.
"As a matter of policy, the club does not comment on transfer speculation," Bekker told Soccer Laduma.
This publication also reached out to the player's agent, Basia Michaels, and Mamelodi Sundowns but received no response at the time of preparing this report.
The potential record-breaking fee underscores Basadien's rising value in South African football and Sundowns' determination to strengthen their squad for both domestic and continental competitions.
