Kaizer Chiefs may have just been handed a massive lifeline in their search for a dynamic wide attacker. DStv Premiership rivals Mamelodi Sundowns have reportedly given Bafana Bafana winger Thapelo Maseko permission to find a new club ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The 22-year-old was conspicuously left out of Sundowns’ pre-season tour to Austria, further confirming that his time at Chloorkop has come to an end under head coach Miguel Cardoso.
Excluded from Austria: Maseko’s Chloorkop Exit Strategy
According to SABC Sport journalist Mazola Molefe, Maseko is actively exploring options after returning from a six-month loan spell with Cypriot club AEL Limassol:
“SABC Sport can reveal that Mamelodi Sundowns have given winger Thapelo Maseko permission to find a new club after leaving him out of their pre-season tour to Austria.”
During his short stint in Europe, the explosive winger made 15 appearances in all competitions, contributing two goals and one assist. However, after AEL Limassol and Sundowns failed to agree on a permanent transfer fee, Maseko returned to South Africa only to find himself surplus to requirements.
The Alternative to R16m Langelihle Phili?
New Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz remains desperate to add proven firepower to his flanks, especially with recent injuries limiting his offensive options.
- The Phili Stumbling Block: Amakhosi have been locked in tough negotiations with Stellenbosch FC for target Langelihle Phili, but Stellies are holding out for a hefty R16 million transfer fee.
- The Maseko Factor: While Maseko represents a ready-made Bafana Bafana international alternative, a potential deal won’t come cheap. He remains under contract with Mamelodi Sundowns until 2028, meaning Sundowns will still demand a substantial fee from their Soweto rivals.
With the transfer window heating up, Maseko’s sudden availability presents a prime opportunity for Naturena’s hierarchy to strike a major statement deal.
