Mamelodi Sundowns to Offload Fan-Favourite Thembinkosi Lorch to North African Giants

Mamelodi Sundowns to Sell Thembinkosi Lorch to Wydad Casablanca After Loan Spell.

Mamelodi Sundowns are reportedly on the verge of permanently parting ways with fan-favourite winger Thembinkosi Lorch, who is set to join Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca. The move comes after the 31-year-old impressed during a productive loan spell at the North African club, reigniting his career on the continental stage.

According to multiple reports emerging from both South Africa and Morocco, Wydad have successfully negotiated terms with Sundowns to secure Lorch’s services on a permanent basis. This development signals a significant decision by the South African champions, who only signed Lorch 18 months ago in a high-profile transfer from Orlando Pirates.

A Resurgent Spell at Wydad Casablanca

Lorch, often known by his nickname “Nyoso,” joined Wydad Casablanca on loan earlier this year and quickly became an integral part of the team. He made 17 appearances across all competitions, contributing both in build-up play and as a threat in front of goal.

One of the standout aspects of his time in Morocco was his performance at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup, where he emerged as one of Wydad’s most influential players. His creativity, experience, and composure on the ball earned praise from fans and pundits alike, with many calling for the club to make the move permanent.

It appears those wishes will soon be granted.

Reports Confirm Deal Close to Completion

According to a report by KickOff, citing the Moroccan outlet Al-Mountakhab, Wydad have finalized negotiations with Mamelodi Sundowns regarding Lorch’s permanent transfer. The same report adds that the winger’s agent has traveled to Morocco to complete the final stages of the agreement, suggesting the deal is all but sealed.

“Wydad Athletic Club are now reported to have finally reached an agreement to sign Thembinkosi Lorch on a permanent deal,” reads the KickOff article.

“Moroccan newspaper Al-Mountakhab now claims that Wydad have reached an agreement with Sundowns over the permanent transfer of Lorch. According to the Arabic outlet, his agent is said to have been in Morocco to finalize the deal.”

Lorch’s Time at Sundowns: Short but Complicated

Thembinkosi Lorch arrived at Mamelodi Sundowns with much fanfare in January 2024, following a sensational stint at Orlando Pirates where he was regularly among the top performers in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). However, his time at Chloorkop did not go as expected.

Despite his individual brilliance, Lorch struggled to find a consistent role under then-coach Rulani Mokwena. His appearances were sporadic, and the abundance of talent at Sundowns made regular minutes hard to come by. As a result, he was loaned out just over a year after arriving at the club.

Mokwena’s departure from Sundowns in July 2024 further complicated Lorch’s standing at the club. With a new technical team likely to reshape the squad and build around other key players, it became evident that Lorch’s future lay elsewhere.

Sundowns Undergo Squad Reshuffle

The potential sale of Lorch is part of a broader shake-up at Sundowns, who have already parted ways with at least five senior players during this transfer window. The club appears to be transitioning into a new era and, interestingly, has not yet announced any new signings to replace the outgoing names.

By offloading Lorch, Sundowns not only free up space in the squad but also ease the wage bill, giving them room to target younger talent or reinforce other positions as they prepare for domestic and continental campaigns ahead.

A Win-Win for All Parties?

The move to Wydad could offer Lorch the stability and regular game time he was denied at Sundowns. In Morocco, he has already won over fans and established himself as a valuable asset in Wydad’s attack. The permanent switch may be just what he needs to reignite his career and extend his prime years on the field.

For Sundowns, while it may be bittersweet to lose a player of Lorch’s caliber, the decision makes strategic sense. His limited role at the club, combined with their evolving squad dynamics, suggests that both player and club will benefit from a clean break.

Should Sundowns Let Lorch Go?

It’s a question that divides fans. On one hand, Thembinkosi Lorch remains one of the most naturally gifted attackers South Africa has produced in recent years. On the other, his inability to cement a regular starting role at Sundowns raises questions about his long-term fit at the club.

Considering his age (31), injury history, and the influx of younger talent, many within the Sundowns faithful are beginning to accept that the club’s decision to move on could be a necessary one. The key will lie in how the proceeds from the transfer are reinvested.

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What’s Next?

An official announcement is expected soon from both clubs, confirming the permanent transfer. With the deal nearly finalized, all that remains is paperwork and formalities. Should everything proceed smoothly, Lorch could begin the 2025/26 season as a fully-fledged Wydad Casablanca player, continuing his African football journey in the Moroccan top flight.

As for Sundowns, all eyes will now be on their transfer strategy in the coming weeks. With key departures piling up, fans are eager to see how the club intends to rebuild and retain its dominant position in South African and African football.