Mamelodi Sundowns are moving aggressively to strengthen their defensive ranks ahead of the 2025/26 Premier Soccer League season. TS Galaxy’s Khulumani Ndamane emerged as their top target. The 21-year-old, who came through the ranks at Kaizer Chiefs before a move to Galaxy, has enjoyed a meteoric rise following his breakout season and now finds himself at the centre of a major transfer tug-of-war.
Ndamane’s journey is a testament to perseverance and talent. Initially a standout in Kaizer Chiefs’ DStv Diski Challenge squad, he was surprisingly never given a first-team opportunity at Naturena. A decision now under scrutiny as his profile grows. After joining TS Galaxy in July 2024, Ndamane rapidly cemented his place at the heart of their defence. His consistency and composure saw him start 27 matches across all competitions, missing only a handful of games.
Such performances did not go unnoticed, earning him a senior international debut for Bafana Bafana in a goalless draw against Tanzania. National team coach Hugo Broos spoke glowingly of the defender, praising his “composure, aerial ability, and physical strength. All attributes that mark him as one of South Africa’s most promising defensive talents”.
The Transfer Race Heats Up
With Sundowns in discussions to secure his signature, TS Galaxy face the prospect of losing another key talent following their record fifth-place league finish. Initial overseas interest from Romanian club FCSB was rebuffed. Keeping the player firmly in the sights of local giants. Rivals Orlando Pirates have also monitored the situation. But Sundowns remain favourites as they look to rebuild after the departure of Argentine defender Lucas Suarez.
Both Ndamane’s versatility, as a left-footed center-back comfortable in a back three or four. His rapid adaptation to top-flight football make him an ideal candidate for Sundowns’ ambitions. Should the transfer go through, it would underline Sundowns’ continued commitment to snapping up the best developing South African talent.
As negotiations continue, Khulumani Ndamane stands on the cusp of becoming a central figure for one of South Africa’s most successful clubs. His journey from Chiefs academy, through a stellar season at TS Galaxy, to the brink of a move to Chloorkop, represents one of the PSL’s most exciting career trajectories this year.