South American star ends transfer speculation after leaving Mamelodi Sundowns to join Greek side AE Kifisia FC

Mamelodi Sundowns have transferred midfielder Matias Esquivel to Greek side AE Kifisia FC on a one-year deal.

The Argentine was already being rumoured to be on his way out of Chloorkop after struggling for game time under coach Miguel Cardoso.

His stint at Masandawana was also punctuated by a loan spell at his former club CA Talleres.

"Kifisia FC announces the start of cooperation with Matías Eduardo Esquivel, who plays as a midfielder," the club announced in a statement.

"Matias Eduardo Esquivel signed a one-year contract. Kifisia FC welcomes him to its family and wishes him health, luck and every success."

In the past year, Masandawana have parted ways with four South American players who have struggled to establish themselves as regulars after reportedly arriving at Chllorkop on big-money deals.

The Brazilians first released Argentine winger Junior Mendieta to Greek outfit Volos NPS before Bolivian midfielder Erwin Saavedra left in February.

Another player from Argentina Lucas Suarez's loan spell was shortlived after Sundowns opted against permanently signing him due to the defender's costly blunders, and they have now let Esquivel go to Greece.

That could see the quality of some South American players being questioned and their acquisition might be viewed as a gamble.

Sundowns could also lose Lucas Ribeiro Costa, however, not due to the player struggling, but his top form last season and performances at the Club World Cup attracted the interest of a number of overseas clubs. 

Cardoso has made it clear that R46 million-signing Esquivel was never in his plans, also saying the player never fought for his place in the team.

"I had nothing to do with him coming to the club, that was under the previous coach - Rhulani Mokwena," said Cardoso as per SABC Sport.

"But Matias is a very good player, and he will succeed wherever he goes. I also didn't give him many opportunities, but at some point, Matias didn't show any perseverance or real willingness to get into the team."

Esquivel becomes the latest player to leave Sundowns who have announced just one arrival so far during the current transfer window.

Meanwhile, the Brazilians are preparing for the MTN8 semi-final, first-leg clash with Orlando Pirates on Saturday.