With the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season rapidly approaching, Kaizer Chiefs are far from finished in the transfer market. Having returned from their pre-season tour of Spain, head coach Fernando Da Cruz now has a clear picture of the reinforcements required to compete both domestically and on the continent.
With up to R71 million in prize money on the line in the CAF Confederation Cup, Amakhosi hierarchy are weighing big-money moves to give Da Cruz the squad depth necessary for a grueling schedule.
The Transfer Targets: Swaps, Free Agents, & Big Calls
1. Langelihle Phili (Stellenbosch FC) — Proposed Swap Deal
- The Situation: Amakhosi are pushing hard for the gifted 21-year-old Stellenbosch FC winger, whose pace and creativity have made him one of the country’s most sought-after prospects.
- The Twist: Chiefs have reportedly proposed a high-value player-plus-cash deal involving forward Ashley Du Preez returning to the Cape Winelands. However, Naturena faces stiff competition from interested North African clubs.
2. Tshegofatso Mabasa (Free Agent) — The Box Threat
- The Situation: The 29-year-old former Orlando Pirates frontman is currently without a club after parting ways with the Buccaneers in June.
- The Fit: Mabasa offers proven PSL goalscoring credentials and would provide immediate competition up front while Khanyisa Mayo continues his rehabilitation from injury.
3. Percy Tau (Free Agent) — The Marquee Dilemma
- The Situation: The 32-year-old Bafana Bafana superstar is available on a free transfer following his departure from Vietnam and has expressed an openness to joining Mzansi’s big three.
- The Decision: While Tau brings elite continental pedigree, the Chiefs board must balance his signing against the long-term development of rising starlets like Wandile Duba and Asanele Velebayi.
Squad Health Update: Pre-Season Tour Injuries
- Paseka Mako: The left-back fractured his forearm during the Spanish tour and is ruled out for the opening league fixtures.
- Khanyisa Mayo: The permanent summer signee is making steady progress in his rehabilitation process ahead of his competitive debut.
