Mamelodi Sundowns are considering a move for Colombia Under-23 international Josen Escobar as they seek to replace defensive midfielder Jayden Adams.
The South African champions have reportedly turned their attention to South America after Adams passed away in Cape Town shortly after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra, Sundowns have expressed strong interest in Escobar, who plays as a central defensive midfielder for America de Cali.
However, the Tshwane club face competition for the 21-year-old’s signature. Mexico’s Santos Laguna and an unnamed Bulgarian club are also interested in signing Escobar, although both are understood to be considering a loan deal.
Sundowns, by contrast, are looking to secure a permanent transfer.
Escobar is valued at R37m by America de Cali, a fee Sundowns may be prepared to meet as they assess their options in midfield. The club have also recently created space in their foreign-player registrations by ending their association with Portuguese midfielder Miguel Reisinho.
The potential move would give Sundowns an opportunity to add a player with considerable senior experience despite Escobar’s age. He has made 117 official appearances for America de Cali, scoring four goals and registering seven assists during his time with the Colombian side.
Escobar has spent most of that spell operating in a deeper midfield role, where his defensive work and experience at club level have made him a regular option.
He has also had a brief spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq, the parent club of Orlando Pirates midfielder Mohau Nkota. Escobar played eight matches during his time with the Saudi club before returning to America de Cali.
Nkota has since moved back to the Premier Soccer League on a season-long loan with Orlando Pirates, the club he previously represented.
Sundowns’ interest in Escobar comes as they continue to reshape their squad following the loss of Adams. The club have not yet completed a deal for the Colombian, and any transfer would depend on negotiations with America de Cali as well as competition from Santos Laguna and the Bulgarian side.
The Brazilians’ ability to pursue a permanent agreement could prove significant, with the other interested clubs reportedly focusing on a temporary arrangement.
Sundowns have also been linked with activity in other areas, while attention around the domestic game includes the identification of two venues for the Bafana Bafana fixture against Guinea. Nkota’s return to Orlando Pirates has likewise been described as a notable move in the Premier Soccer League.
For now, Escobar remains under contract at America de Cali, with Sundowns weighing up whether to make a formal offer for the highly experienced Colombia Under-23 midfielder.
