As Kaizer Chiefs gear up for a clean slate under newly appointed head coach Fernando Da Cruz, the club’s transfer philosophy is once again under the spotlight. Over the past year, the Soweto giants have heavily relied on the free-agent market to spearhead their squad rebuild—a strategy that divided opinion but ultimately helped guide the team to a third-place finish in the Betway Premiership last season.
With the 2026/27 pre-season officially underway, Amakhosi have already dipped back into the free transfer pool by locking down highly-rated defender Thabo Moloisane.
The Class of 2025/26: Every Free Agent Signed in the Last 12 Months
Kaizer Chiefs completed a massive overhaul last season by bringing in seven players without paying a single cent in transfer fees. While some went on to become vital cogs in the Amakhosi machine, others struggled to find their feet at Naturena.
The Hits: Found Instant Success
- Thabiso Monyane: Hit the ground running and quickly cemented himself as an undisputed regular starter.
- Lebohang Maboe: Brought elite top-flight experience and tactical versatility straight into the starting XI.
- Asanele Velebayi: The exciting prospect showed immensely encouraging signs out wide, becoming a fan favorite.
- Ethan Chislett: Stepped up in key moments, proving to be a creative and reliable squad asset.
The Stragglers: Yet to Make a Major Impact
- Paseka Mako: Faced stiff competition and found minutes hard to come by in the defensive line.
- Etiosa Ighodaro: Had a quiet campaign, struggling to replicate his previous goalscoring exploits.
- Luke Baartman: The youngster found it difficult to break into the matchday squad consistently.
Clearing the Decks: Clear-outs and Massive Targets Looming
To make space for the new era under Da Cruz, Kaizer Chiefs have already officially sanctioned the departures of midfielders George Matlou and Happy Mashiane, with more exits expected to follow.
The big question now is whether Amakhosi will continue their bargain-hunting ways. The current market is flooded with world-class, unattached talent. Household names like Tshegofatso Mabasa, Bafana Bafana talisman Percy Tau, and lethal marksman Peter Shalulile are all currently available as free agents.
With a demanding season ahead—including a highly anticipated run in the CAF Confederation Cup—Da Cruz will need to balance financial thriftiness with the star power required to bring silverware back to the Kaizer Chiefs trophy cabinet.
