Former Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Lucas Ribeiro Costa is officially back on the market after his short-term contract with Spanish side Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa came to an end, making him a free agent ahead of the new season. The 27-year-old Brazilian carries a reputation as one of the most influential players to have featured in the Betway Premiership in recent years, and his availability is likely to attract significant interest across multiple leagues. Ribeiro left Sundowns under controversial circumstances after terminating his contract through FIFA channels, alleging that inflated valuation blocked his career opportunities, a case that drew attention beyond South Africa due to its potential implications for player movement in world football.
While the legal battle generated headlines, Ribeiro’s on-pitch achievements kept him among the most talked-about figures linked to African football. His move to Spain did not produce the expected outcome, as Cultural Leonesa suffered relegation to the third tier during the 2025/26 campaign. Attention has now shifted to his next destination, with reports linking him to Libyan giants Al Ittihad Tripoli, a move that could see him reunite with former Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena, who played a major role in some of the most successful years of Ribeiro’s career.
During his time at Sundowns, Ribeiro collected the Betway Premiership Golden Boot, Footballer of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season