Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro Costa is in talks to join LaLiga2 side Cultural y Deportivo Leonesa, as per reports in Spain.
Both sides are in “advanced talks” after Ribeiro terminated his contract with Mamelodi Sundowns on 1 August, citing the “Lassana Diarra” ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) with the case then escalated to the FIFA’s Football Tribunal.
Ribeiro, who sent a farewell message on Monday, was already spotted at Leonesa’s game against Leganes on Sunday, with videos shared by Spanish journalist Gonzalo Sanchez.
Ribeiro argues that he has “just cause” for terminating his contract after Sundowns rejecting a “lucrative offer” from Qatari side Qatar SC, while Brazilian side Fluminense were also said to be interested in his services.
The player, together with his agency, have therefore decided to take the matter to the FIFA Tribunal, the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and possibly in any competent State Court – Ribeiro will be represented in this dispute by “Dupont-Hissel” law firm, the same firm who are currently handling the high-profile ‘Diarra Ruling’.
Ribeiro argues that any future employer should not have to pay a fee to Sundowns or get financially involved in his dispute with Sundowns.
The 26-year-old was named PSL Footballer of the Season for his exploits in 2024/25 after scoring 21 goals and setting up 14 more across all competitions last campaign. Overall, he has made 88 appearances for Masandawana, netting 37 times and setting up 23 more.
His fine solo goal against Borussia Dortmund was also voted the Goal of the Tournament at the recent FIFA Club World Cup.
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