Mamelodi Sundowns' promising young defender Malibongwe Khoza's interest received from Europe has intensified, with a Ligue 1 side set to step up negotiations, the Siya crew has been informed.
As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, Stade Rennais FC had expressed interest in the 21-year-old centre-back, who enjoyed his breakthrough season with the Brazilians last season.
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Sources close to both the club and player have indicated that the French outfit has formally submitted an offer to secure Khoza's services, with discussions expected to enter a decisive phase.
"Each passing day, the move is believed to be coming closer to reality, and it's believed that the French club has tabled an offer to Sundowns. At the moment, it's at the office where they have the details of the offer, but they are looking at it. There could be negotiations starting soon if Sundowns consider the offer," the insider told Soccer Laduma.
A second source close to the situation stated that Sundowns' defensive depth could facilitate Khoza's potential departure, despite his impressive performances since being promoted from the club's DDC side. Though a decision hasn't been made yet.
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"The club feels they are well-balanced in defence and that's what could give Khoza the chance to move to Europe. But at the end of the day they will also consider the offer from Rennais and take it from there since there is an interest and an offer as well," the second source stated.
Khoza, who was promoted to Sundowns' first team last season as part of the club's increasing focus on youth development, featured in most Betway Premiership matches during his debut campaign, displaying maturity beyond his years.
Soccer Laduma contacted Sundowns for comment on Khoza's future but the club had not responded by the time this report was published.
The potential transfer would represent another success story for Sundowns' development system, which has recently placed greater emphasis on nurturing homegrown talent while maintaining their status as a continental powerhouse. It remains to be seen if the Brazilians choose to keep the player, or whether it's the right time and right offer to accept.
