According to South African publication iDiski Times, Sundowns have agreed a pre-contract with Méndez, who is currently with Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle. His existing deal is due to expire at the end of December, allowing him to move to South Africa as a free agent.
Sundowns revive pursuit of Méndez
The reported agreement marks a turnaround in negotiations after Sundowns’ initial pursuit appeared to have stalled.
iDiski Times reported in September that the South African club had ended its interest after Independiente del Valle rebuffed an approach. However, discussions were subsequently revived, with Sundowns reportedly reaching an agreement directly with the player.
Ecuadorian media have also reported that Méndez is expected to sign a three-year contract, although the transfer remains subject to the outstanding formalities, including medical checks, according to reports.
Experienced Ecuador midfielder brings international pedigree
Méndez has earned 38 caps for Ecuador and represented his country at the FIFA World Cup. He is primarily a defensive midfielder, offering experience in the central areas of the pitch.
The Ecuadorian has played outside his home country with Orlando City and Los Angeles FC in the United States, São Paulo in Brazil and Elche in Spain.
He returned to Independiente del Valle in January 2025 after his spells abroad and is now reportedly preparing for another international move, this time to African football.
Midfield reinforcement for the Brazilians
Méndez’s expected arrival would give Sundowns another experienced option in midfield as the club continues to strengthen its squad.
The reported move follows the signing of Thabo Cele as a free agent. Sundowns have also faced uncertainty over Marcelo Allende’s longer-term future, with iDiski Times noting that the Chilean midfielder is in the final year of his contract.
If completed, Méndez’s arrival would add a player with international and overseas club experience to Sundowns’ midfield ahead of the second half of the 2026/27 season.
January arrival expected
Méndez is expected to remain with Independiente del Valle until his current contract expires in December before making the move to South Africa.
Neither the reported agreement nor the anticipated January arrival should be treated as a completed transfer announcement from Sundowns until the club formally confirms the signing.