Toronto FC table R30-million for Sundown striker Cassius Mailula

Following confirmation from Downs on Monday night that there was interest in the Bafana Bafana forward without sharing more details on the “North American” club chasing Mailula, SABC Sport revealed it is Toronto FC. 

Sundowns have not made any further comment since, only insisting they “support” the move for their youth academy product. 

Mailula’s agent is also mum on the subject. 

“I am not giving comment on this transaction until I have the green light to share,” said Karabo Tshabuse, who is also an attorney. 

The player has not travelled to the Netherlands for pre-season camp with coach Rulani Mokwena’s side, and it is expected the move to America will go through pending medicals as well as other finer details. 

According to information gathered by the public broadcaster, there’s no official agreement in place between the two clubs just yet. 

But given how far negotiations are and the fact that Sundowns have given the player permission to discuss personal terms suggests a transfer is imminent – whether they will settled on the R30-million [around USD 1.6m] remains to be seen. 

Mailula enjoyed a breakthrough season during the 2022/23 campaign, which culminated with Sundowns defending their DStv Premiership title. 

The forward led the line with distinction, especially while fellow striker Peter Shalulile was out injured, scoring 15 goals in 31 matches. 

Not only was he crowned the Young Player of the Year, but Mailula also earned a Bafana call-up and made two appearances. 

The move to Toronto FC now looks imminent, where he will join compatriots Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Njabulo Blom.

Stellenbosch FC also confirmed yesterday their 19-year-old defender Olwethu Makhanya was joining Philadelphia Union in the same league.