Mamelodi Sundowns close in on Portuguese duo to bolster squad
Mamelodi Sundowns are preparing to wrap up a busy deadline day by finalising the signings of Portuguese midfielders Miguel Reisinho and Nuno Santos.
According to reports from Portugal, both players are close to agreements with the Betway Premiership champions, giving head coach Miguel Cardoso more depth as he prepares for another demanding campaign.
Balancing the Foreign Quota
The Tshwane giants opened up three foreign slots following the exits of Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Lucas Suarez and Matias Esquivel. With Marcelo Allende and Arthur Sales already occupying spots, the arrivals of Reisinho and Santos will push the total to four.
Crucially, senior players Denis Onyango, Divine Lunga and Peter Shalulile are all registered as locals, giving Sundowns added flexibility when managing squad numbers.
Profile of the New Arrivals
- Nuno Santos: Signed from Vitória SC, the 25-year-old brings valuable experience from Portugal’s top division and offers versatility in midfield.
- Miguel Reisinho: Most recently at Boavista, Reisinho is known for his composure, passing range and technical quality. Respected Portuguese journalist Sebastião Sousa-Pinto has suggested the deal is close to being finalised.
Both will join a growing list of Portuguese talents at Chloorkop, reflecting Cardoso’s recruitment strategy since taking charge.
Sundowns’ Transfer Window So Far
While Sundowns have been relatively quiet compared to previous seasons, they have made some notable moves:
- In: Fawaaz Basadien, Katlego Ntsabeleng
- Out: More than 10 players, including Ribeiro Costa and Suarez
The double Portuguese swoop represents a late but significant investment in depth ahead of a campaign that includes defending the league title and competing on the continent.
CAF Champions League Implications
Timing is everything. By securing Reisinho and Santos before the September deadline, Sundowns will be able to register them for the CAF Champions League’s second preliminary round. Their arrival could provide the extra creativity and tactical balance needed to push deeper into the tournament.
Why This Matters for Fans
The signings show clear ambition. Adding European midfielders to an already star-studded squad suggests Sundowns are targeting dominance at home and abroad. For supporters, it offers a glimpse into a refreshed midfield dynamic that combines South American flair, African resilience and Portuguese discipline.
Check also: Mamelodi Sundowns Face Setback as R30m Offer for Midfielder Rejected
If Miguel Reisinho and Nuno Santos are unveiled in the coming days, Mamelodi Sundowns’ Portuguese connection will grow even stronger. Could this European influence be the missing ingredient for continental success?
