The transfer has been placed in doubt after a concern with Cele’s knee emerged during the medical process at Sundowns.
This is according to iDiski Times journalist Joshua Hendricks.
THABO CELE TO MAMELODI SUNDOWNS IN JEOPARDY
“Thabo Cele’s proposed move to Sundowns has hit a stumbling block after a knee issue emerged during his medical,” the report said.
“Cele had previously been due to have knee surgery at Kaizer Chiefs but opted against it.
“The transfer has not collapsed, but the move is now hanging in the balance,” Hendricks concluded.
Despite the setback, the proposed move to Sundowns has not officially collapsed.
The medical concern could still be assessed by the club before a final decision is made. However, according to Hendricks, the transfer is now hanging in the balance.
Cele’s potential move to the reigning South African champions had appeared to be done and dusted.
The latest medical development means there is now uncertainty over whether the deal will ultimately be completed.
WHAT HAPPENS IN MEDICAL TESTS?
A football transfer medical is a detailed health and fitness assessment carried out before a player joins a new club.
It is designed to identify injury risks and help the buying club decide whether the player is a safe financial investment.
1. MEDICAL HISTORY
Doctors review previous injuries, operations, recurring problems and rehabilitation. A player’s concussion history may also be considered.
2. MUSCLE AND JOINT TESTS
Physios assess movement, flexibility, strength and joint stability. They look for weaknesses or muscle imbalances, particularly around areas such as the knees, hips, hamstrings and groin.
3. HEART AND FITNESS CHECKS
Players can undergo an ECG, echocardiogram and stress tests to assess heart health, blood pressure and how the body responds to intense exercise.
4. BLOOD, URINE AND BODY TESTS
Blood and urine samples can be used to check general health, including blood counts, liver and kidney function, bone health, infections and certain conditions. Body composition, including muscle and fat levels, can also be assessed.
5. SCANS
MRI scans, X-rays or ultrasounds can be carried out on areas where there is a known or suspected problem. This is particularly important when a player has a history of surgery or serious injury.
6. FITNESS TESTS
Depending on the club, players may also complete sprinting, strength and football-specific drills to assess their current physical condition and readiness.
WHAT HAPPENS IF A PLAYER FAILS?
A player “failing” a medical does not necessarily mean they cannot play football. It usually means the club has identified a medical risk it considers too high.
The club can walk away from the transfer, renegotiate the fee or contract, or include clauses that protect it against future injury problems.
In other words, the medical is not simply about asking whether a player can play now. It is about assessing the risks that could affect the player and the club in the future.
Also read: Transfer report: Sundowns beat Pirates to sign Bafana star Matuludi
