Mamelodi Sundowns have finally secured the services of their long-time target, Thabo Nthethe, from Bloemfontein Celtic.

The Siya crew last night reported that Sundowns were close to finalising a deal with Celtic for the services of the Bafana Bafana defender. The Chloorkop-based club has been known to be big admirers of Nthethe, with Phunya Sele Sele holding on to the player.

Though it has been broadly announced that the player signed a four-year deal, Siya sources have confirmed the finer details, saying that the contract is a two-and-a-half year deal (29 months) with a one-year option.

The player's agent, Mike Makaab, confirmed the news, and posted Nthethe's picture in Sundowns colours, on his official Twitter account, before both Celtic and Sundowns announced the move.

"It is with regret that I have to leave Celtic at this time after a decade of playing at the club that will always hold a special place in my heart," Nthethe is quoted as saying on Celtic's official website.

"The Celtic management, supporters, fellow players and various technical teams have always supported me along the way and it is because of them that I feel I have reached my potential as a player.

"This opportunity may seem like a shock, and indeed it feels like it, but I could not afford to turn down this opportunity. It is not often that a player gets a chance such as this and I feel honoured that Celtic has handled this matter delicately and with dignity.

"I wish Celtic all the best for the season and beyond, from the bottom of my heart."

He continued on the Sundowns' official website, "Joining a big team like Sundowns is dream come true for me, as it is one I always wished could happen for a while now”

"I'm joining Sundowns because I want to take may career to the next level and I want to achieve more success. This club is going places and I believe I will add to bringing back the glory days."