Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro Costa has reportedly arrived in Tunis as he closes in on a move to Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis.
The Brazilian forward is set to begin a new chapter in North African football after a turbulent spell since leaving Sundowns in August 2025.
Ribeiro enjoyed a sensational spell with the Brazilians, scoring 30 goals in 55 Betway Premiership appearances and helping the club win two league titles between 2023 and 2025. However, his departure was overshadowed by a contract dispute that remains under review by FIFA.
Following his exit, the 27-year-old moved to Spain’s second division, where he struggled to replicate his South African form, scoring five goals in 27 appearances.
According to reports, Espérance have agreed a deal that will see Ribeiro join the Tunisian champions in a swap involving Ibrahim Keita and Jack Diarra from Libyan club Al Ittihad Tripoli.
His arrival has already sparked mixed reactions among football fans. Some Mamelodi Sundowns supporters continue to criticise the manner of his departure, branding him a “traitor” following the contractual dispute. Others, however, argue that Ribeiro was within his rights to move on if he was a free agent.
For Espérance, the signing represents a major statement of intent as they strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. If the ongoing FIFA case is resolved without affecting his eligibility, Ribeiro could provide a significant boost to the club’s ambitions in the CAF Champions League.
Known for his pace, flair, and clinical finishing, the Brazilian will be expected to rediscover the form that made him one of the Betway Premiership’s most feared attackers.
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