Peter Shalulile is reportedly on his way out of Mamelodi Sundowns this month, despite underlining his importance to the club in the CAF Champions League on Saturday.
That is according to South African online publication Far Post, which claims Sundowns are entertaining offers for the 31-year-old forward and actively pursuing alternative striking options for the January transfer window.
Although his contract runs until June 2025 with an option for a further two years, indications are that the club is in discussions with interested parties, Far Post reports.
Shalulile rose from the bench late on to rescue the South African champions in Kinshasa, scoring one and forcing an own goal to secure a 2-1 victory away at AS Maniema Union of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
It was a rare moment of brilliance during a troubled period for Shalulile, whose inconsistent form has mirrored that of the club which has lost its invincibility domestically and is labouring to remain in contention for continental honours.
Sundowns talisman since signing for them in the 2020/21 season, Shalulile has been reduced to a bit-part player this campaign, owing to injury, indifferent form and changes to the coaching staff at the club.
He has been a prolific scorer for the club, netting 95 goals in 180 starts and providing 25 assists.
Despite having fallen down the pecking order this term, the 31-year-old is said to still have admirers in North Africa and the Middle East.
The Brave Warriors captain has never shirked from a challenge and has buckled down to turn his fortunes around.
“Putting in the work is not easy, but there is a reward,” Shalulile said in a a post-match interview posted on Sundowns socials.
“So, what happened today is stay focused, stay positive. It doesn’t matter how many minutes you get, but as long as you make sure you take advantage of those minutes. So, I did,” he said.
The indefatigable forward was introduced ten minutes before time, nodding in the equaliser three minutes later from an in-swinging Teboho Mokoena’s cross.
He was at it again in added time, chasing and bringing a long ball under his spell before Union defender Exaucia Moanda’s attempted challenge saw him prod the ball into his own net.
The late win ensured the Brazilians remain second on the table with eight points, the same as leaders AS FAR Rabat, who will play Raja Casablanca in their next game.
Sha-sha’s brilliant cameo may be enough to dissuade newly appointed coach Miguel Cardoso from dipping into the market for a new marksman.
However, Sundowns are reportedly keen to cash-in on the talented Namibian who is still regarded as one of the best on the continent.
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