Mamelodi Sundowns’ Silent Window Ends with a Roar as Nuno Santos Arrives

Mamelodi Sundowns have completed a dramatic deadline-day signing, securing Portuguese playmaker Nuno Santos in a deal worth around R20 million.

The move ends the champions’ quiet transfer window with a bold statement, as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of another demanding season in the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League.

Sundowns’ Quiet Window Strategy

Head coach Miguel Cardoso made it clear he wanted a leaner, more efficient squad. This led to Sundowns adopting a restrained approach in the market.

Players In:

• Fawaaz Basadien – Left-back from Stellenbosch FC
• Katlego ‘Tsiki’ Ntsabeleng – Midfielder on loan from FC Dallas (MLS)

Players Out:

High-profile exits included Sipho Mbule, Lebohang Maboe, Rivaldo Coetzee, Rushine De Reuck, Sifiso Ngobeni, Neo Maema, Thembinkosi Lorch, Lucas Suarez, Thabang Sibanyoni, and Sanele Tshabalala.

The most painful departure was Lucas Ribeiro Costa, last season’s star forward who forced a move to Spain’s Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa after a stellar campaign (21 goals, 14 assists in 51 games).

Nuno Santos: A Deadline-Day Masterstroke

Sundowns confirmed the signing late on Monday night with the statement:

“Masandawana is proud to welcome Portuguese midfielder Nuno Santos to the club.”

Santos’ Profile:

• Former clubs: Benfica, Charlotte FC, Vitória de Guimarães
• Career stats: 90 matches for Guimarães, 8 goals, 16 assists
• International: Represented Portugal U16 to U21
• Honours: UEFA U17 European Championship winner (2019)

At 26 years old, Santos brings flair, creativity, and versatility. He can operate as a number 10 or as an inverted winger, offering the tactical flexibility Cardoso craves.

Can Santos Replace Ribeiro?

Ribeiro’s exit left a glaring hole in Sundowns’ attack. His achievements included:

• PSL Footballer of the Season
• Players’ Player of the Season
• Golden Boot winner
• Goal of the Season award

Santos may not be a direct like-for-like replacement, but his vision, dribbling skills, and ability to score from distance give Sundowns fresh attacking options. His European experience and proven creativity could soften the blow of Ribeiro’s departure.

Why This Signing Matters

• Tactical Depth – Gives Cardoso flexibility in midfield and attack.
• Continental Ambitions – A key signing as Sundowns chase CAF Champions League glory.
• Fan Excitement – Adds a new dimension to Masandawana’s play.
• Statement of Intent – Shows Sundowns can still attract international-calibre players despite a quiet market.

Check also: Mamelodi Sundowns close in on Portuguese duo to bolster squad

The signing of Nuno Santos marks a turning point in Sundowns’ transfer window. After weeks of silence, the champions ended with a roar, securing a European-trained playmaker with the potential to become a star in the PSL.

If Santos adapts quickly, he could be the spark that keeps Sundowns at the top of South African football while helping them push for continental success.