According to reports from Morocco, Casablanca-based giants Wydad Athletic are making a desperate final push to secure Thembinkosi Lorch permanently from Mamelodi Sundowns before time runs out.
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Lorch, who joined Wydad on loan from Sundowns, quickly became a key figure for the Moroccan outfit, delivering standout performances, especially during the FIFA Club World Cup. His displays have convinced Wydad head coach Mohamed Amine Benhachem to push the club’s hierarchy to retain the influential winger at all costs.
Infosports.ma reports that Wydad officials are set to meet with Lorch’s agent in Casablanca on Wednesday in what is being described as a decisive meeting. The club’s management hopes to strike a deal that would see the player remain in Morocco on a permanent basis.
The urgency stems from a clause in Lorch’s loan agreement. While the initial deal included a purchase option valued at $500,000 (approximately R10 million), Sundowns retained the right to reassess the player’s situation after June 30. Following Lorch’s impressive performances, particularly on the international stage, Sundowns have reportedly increased their asking price to $1 million (around R20 million).
Wydad’s board is eager to avoid a repeat of their recent struggles with South African players after failing to keep Cassius Mailula, who returned to Toronto FC following his loan. Keeping Lorch is seen as vital for maintaining the momentum the team built under Benhachem, especially given the winger’s immediate impact on Wydad’s attacking play.
With the player’s future now dependent on successful negotiations between his agent and the two clubs, the next 48 hours will be critical in determining whether Wydad can secure one of their most important assets or lose him to rival interest.
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