Mamelodi Sundowns striker Peter Shalulile looks set to make a move to Al-Hilal SC of Sudan at the end of the 2024/25 season, with reports in Egypt indicating that the two clubs are finalizing a deal that could see the 31-year-old forward make the switch.
According to Egyptian media outlet Kooora, Sundowns have agreed to sell the Namibia international to Al-Hilal, though eve if the move is completed, it is only likely to happen at the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, as the transfer window had recently closed.
The potential deal, which is reported to be worth around $600,000 (approximately R11 million), comes after Shalulile's impressive form at Sundowns. However, the timing of the move comes as a surprise given that the striker has been a crucial player for the club in recent seasons, and his contract with Sundowns is set to expire at the end of the current season.
Sundowns were expected to exercise the two-year extension option on the striker's contract, which was signed in 2022. The five-year contract Shalulile penned with Sundowns includes three years with an option for an additional two years. So, despite the Egyptian reports, it is anticipated that Sundowns could trigger that extension before Shalulile's eventual departure.
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This could allow Sundowns to earn a reasonable transfer fee for the striker, who has played a significant role in their successes over the past few seasons. The forward has been instrumental in their attacking force, but with Sundowns shifting their focus in recent months to Iqraam Rayners, who has been in excellent form, it seems Shalulile's time at the club may be coming to a close.
Al-Hilal SC have been long-time admirers of Shalulile's qualities. Known for his clinical finishing, physicality, and leadership on the field, the striker has established himself as one of the PSL's most prominent players in recent years. His potential move to Al-Hilal would add an experienced and goal-scoring presence to their frontline, something the Sudanese giants may be targeting to strengthen their squad.
Though Shalulile's departure could be a blow to Sundowns, the club will then look to strengthen their attack with a new signing to replace him. Sundowns have always been known for their ability to recruit top talent, and with their extensive scouting network, it is expected that they will find a suitable replacement when Shalulile eventually leaves the club.
With Rayners enjoying a breakout season, having netted 12 goals in 16 appearances, Sundowns' attacking strategy has already started to shift.
Rayners has effectively eclipsed Shalulile as the club's primary striker, and his impressive form has earned him the spotlight in the team's forward line. This shift, combined with Shalulile's potential exit, could further solidify Rayners' place in Sundowns' attacking setup for the future. Sundowns are in a strong position, with plenty of options available to them in the market so whatever happens with Shalulile, they are expected to have the answers.
Although Shalulile's departure could mark the end of an era, Sundowns remain a dominant force in South African football and should continue to be a major contender in both domestic and continental competitions.
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