Mamelodi Sundowns are expected to offer a goalkeeper an additional one-year contract, which would see him remain with the club until June 2026.
Sources close to both the player and the club have indicated that Sundowns view legendary keeper Denis Onyango as a valuable asset, potentially serving as the second choice behind Ronwen Williams.
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Soccer Laduma has learned from insiders that both management and technical team may feel that there's currently no better option for a second-choice goalkeeper than Onyango, and thus, he should not retire just yet.
"The talks to keep Denis (Onyango) on as a player have already started. The club feels that they still need him in the dressing room and sometimes on the field of play as a player because he still has a lot to contribute to the team and the young players. At the moment he is still regarded as the second choice to Ronwen Williams. And they believe that's the main reason why they want to keep him for another year," the insider stated.
A second Siya source emphasized that with the club contemplating the potential release of Reyaad Pieterse as reported on Tuesday, having Denis Onyango in the squad is crucial for mentoring young goalkeepers. This seems to be a major reason why Onyango's situation could differ to that of Pieterse, considering they are both experienced.
"Denis is the most senior goalkeeper as well as the most senior player at the club and they need a player like that to keep the dressing room together but at the same time they want him to impact his knowledge to the young goalkeepers. Because if Reyaad (Pieterse) leaves then it's just him and Ronwen. So that's the other reason why they are offering him another one-year on his contract," the second source stated.
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This season, the 39-year-old Ugandan has made just one league appearance for the Brazilians, featuring in the 1-0 defeat to Polokwane City.
Onyango's potential contract extension underscores Sundowns' strategic vision, balancing experience with youth development. By retaining Onyango, the club aims to harness his leadership and expertise, crucial in fostering the next generation of talent while maintaining a competitive edge in the league.
Soccer Laduma contacted Sundowns for comment but the club had not responded by the time this report was published.
