Mamelodi Sundowns' star player, Lucas Ribeiro, has reportedly drawn interest from EFL Championship club Burnley, thanks to his outstanding performances for the Masandawana.
The 24-year-old Ribeiro was signed by Sundowns from Belgian side SK Beveren last season and played a key role in helping the Tshwane giants secure the league title and inaugural African Football League (AFL).
In his first season in the top tier of South African football, the Brazilian attacker scored 16 goals and provided nine assists across all competitions for Masandawana.
This season, he has maintained his excellent form, playing a key role in helping Sundowns rise to the top of the Premiership standings. He has scored four goals and provided two assists.
His impressive performances have won him the admiration of the Masandawana faithful, who will undoubtedly be disappointed to see the player depart from Chloorkop if the move goes through.
According to Soccer Laduma insiders close to the situation have revealed that Burnley are keen on securing the services of the attacking midfielder.
“What I can tell you is that there is a Championship club in England that is interested in Lucas [Ribeiro Costa]," a Siya source stated.
“They have inquired about him and they are not the only club that have inquired about him. His performances have not gone unnoticed as even his former club in Belgium (Beveren) has asked about him. There is a lot of interest in him.
“Although there is interest from Europe including that from Burnley FC, but Mamelodi Sundowns are not willing to let him go, He is one player that they can fight to keep at all costs.
"They know the value he brings to the team and the squad and both management and the technical team are happy with his contribution to the team. That’s why they want to hold onto him despite the interest from Europe.”
IOL Sport