Thato Sibiya has completed his transfer from Mamelodi Sundowns to Ligue 1 side LOSC Lille, who loaned the player for the 2026/27 with a purchase option.
Sibiya, 20, was part of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winning squad in 2025 and went on to star at the U20 FIFA World Cup in Chile.
He was initially part of Sundowns’ pre-season squad in Austria but now completed a move to France, where he will initially be integrated with the reserve side with a view of promotion to the senior set-up.
“LOSC today announces the signing of the young and promising South African defender, Thato Sibiya (20) from Mamelodi Sundowns FC (South Africa). The latter is loaned to the Club for one season (with purchase option) and will initially join the Pro 2 group,” the club stated on Wednesday.
‘Lebo told me to go for it’
Sibiya himself expressed his gratitude for his Europe move, and revealed that he received some advice from former Lille striker Lebo Mothiba before his move.
“I am very grateful to have had this opportunity to join LOSC. I am proud and happy to sign in this great club, and very excited and eager to start working,” he told his new club.
“I am a dynamic and fast defender. I care about progressing here and integrating as soon as possible, starting by adapting to French life and its football.
“Before coming, I spoke with Lebo Mothiba, who was my teammate at the Mamelodi Sundowns. When I told him that I had the opportunity to come here, he told me not to hesitate and go for it.
“He was very happy for me and spoke to me very positively about the club and the city.”