Is it game over for Downs’ CBD?

Johannesburg - While Mamelodi Sundowns have resigned themselves to losing Khama Billiat – the last member of their famous attacking trio – striker Percy Tau could also be on his way out.

Billiat, together with Keagan Dolly and Leonardo Castro, formed part of a formidable attacking gang, known as the CBD, in the league two seasons ago. After Dolly’s departure to France last year and Castro’s move to rivals Kaizer Chiefs, Billiat is set to follow.

Excellent players

While many have focused on Billiat’s reluctance to renew his contract, City Press has learnt that SuperSport United were on the verge of finalising a deal with the Zimbabwean midfielder on Friday.

On Wednesday, club president Patrice Motsepe hinted at losing two players.

“The minute a player gets an opportunity to leave, our job is to make sure we have enough replacements. We are not worried about two of our best players leaving by the end of the month because we have other excellent players,” he said.

A top Sundowns official revealed that they wanted to make some money from the striker before his contract expired.

“At least his team is reasonable because they want him to go now so the club benefits financially. He came here as a kid and we developed him. Now he can leave for free when his contract ends, which is why we are trying to secure a deal now,” said the source.

Coach Pitso Mosimane said Tau belonged in the European leagues and he would not stand in the striker’s way if the right offer came along.

“Who doesn’t want him?” said Mosimane.

“There are lots of queries, but nothing concrete. He must go where he will improve his game and not head off to some obscure place".

Right opportunities

Mosimane said Tau should go to a top European league such as La Liga, Bundesliga, Ligue 1 or Serie A.

“Remember when Keagan wanted to leave? I said he was not ready and needed at least one more year here, and I was berated for that. I think I have been vindicated".

Dolly is hardly getting any game time at Ligue 1 team Montpellier HSC.

“I think Percy deserves to be in Europe. I always tell him we’re behind schedule,” said Mosimane.

“I wish I could have had him playing like this back when he was 20, but it’s never too late".

Tau was noncommittal about the prospect of leaving the team. After walking away with the player of the month award in December, he said his focus was on Sundowns – for now.

He said: “I don’t know if Europe will always give me the right opportunities. I have been to the Club World Cup, played for Bafana Bafana and took part in the Champions League.

“To be honest with you, I don’t think it is too bad in the Premier Soccer League".