Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has addressed the transfer speculation surrounding in-form defender Khuliso Mudau.
Mokwena’s comments come amidst mounting reports that Mudau has emerged as a transfer target for English Premier League side Burnley FC.
Mudau has captured the attention of Burnely, a club where Bafana Bafana star Lyle Foster plays his football with his exceptional.
The full-back has been instrumental in Sundowns’ and Bafana Bafana’s defensive solidity and attack.
Mudau, the reigning PSL Defender of the Season, has featured 16 times in all competitions this season, helping Sundowns win the inaugural African Football League (AFL).
Mokwena stated that he is a ‘selfish coach’ and wants to hold on to his best players, including Mudau.
However, the Sundowns tactician has said that the club is willing to consider offers for the highly-rated defender if there is a clear opportunity for Mudau to further his development and career trajectory.
He emphasised that Sundowns would not stand in the way of Mudau’s progress if the right opportunity presented itself.
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“The ‘Sundowns coach’ in me is saying ‘Sailor’ (Mudau) is going nowhere’,” Mokwena said after Sundowns’ 2-0 win in the Tshwane Derby over SuperSport United on Wednesday.
“Because the Mamelodi Sundowns coach is selfish, we need our best players. And we are not a selling club, and that’s very clear. But the human being understands that life is about growth and there are targets. It’s the same way I’ve dealt with the Cassius (Mailula) situation.
“As difficult as it was for us to let go of Cassius, but when there are ample opportunities and possibilities for growth, it makes sense for all parties involved, Sundowns included. But I can’t entertain it now because it’s just talk. There is nothing on the table at the moment.
“He’s an unbelievable football player, and he’s an incredible human being: such a kind-hearted soul and a very important part of our team, a very important part.
“So it’s difficult to entertain those types of talks because they’re just talks; there is nothing concrete. If I answer it purely as Sundowns coach, I’d say ‘hands-off’. It isn’t easy. It’s the same as when you go to Man City and ask for Kyle Walker; it’s tough.”