Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s future appears to have been decided after weeks of uncertainty, with Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis reportedly winning the race for the Brazilian forward’s signature.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns star was linked with a return to Chloorkop and looked destined for a move to Libya at one stage, but a dramatic late twist has seen Esperance emerge as his expected destination.
Esperance Reach Agreement
According to reports from Tunisia, Ribeiro has agreed to a three-year contract with Esperance and is expected to travel to complete the transfer.
The move strengthens the Tunisian champions ahead of another season of domestic and CAF Champions League football.
Sundowns Reunion Falls Through
Mamelodi Sundowns were eager to bring Ribeiro back after his departure from Spanish side Cultural Leonesa.
Reports claim the club offered him a fresh contract and even withdrew their FIFA case in an effort to facilitate his return. Despite those efforts, the Brazilian opted against a reunion, choosing a new challenge elsewhere.
Al-Ittihad Left Empty-Handed
Perhaps the biggest surprise in the saga is the impact on Libyan club Al-Ittihad, coached by former Sundowns manager Rulani Mokwena.
Al-Ittihad were reportedly confident of signing Ribeiro after reaching a verbal agreement or preliminary contract with the forward. However, Esperance stepped in late and hijacked the move before it could be completed.
As part of the breakthrough agreement, Esperance will reportedly send two players to Al-Ittihad—one on a permanent transfer and another on loan—as compensation after the Libyan side missed out on Ribeiro.
Another Chapter Begins
After leaving Cultural Leonesa earlier this month, Ribeiro quickly became one of the most sought-after free agents on the African market.
With Esperance now closing in on his signature, the Brazilian looks set to begin the next chapter of his career in Tunisia, bringing an end to one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the window.