The 2026/27 Premier Soccer League transfer window is entering its final stretch, and several clubs have already made major moves to reshape their squads.
With the window set to close on 22 September, there is still time for more surprises. But based on the business completed so far, some clubs appear to have strengthened significantly, while others could be feeling the effects of losing important players.
From Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates to Mamelodi Sundowns and Stellenbosch FC, here are some of the biggest winners and losers of the PSL transfer window so far.
WINNER: Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs have taken a more strategic approach to recruitment under head coach Fernando da Cruz.
The Amakhosi have focused on addressing key areas of the squad, particularly defensive experience and attacking firepower.
Thabo Moloisane was one of the first major additions. The defender arrived from Stellenbosch FC after making 64 appearances for the club and was brought in to add greater stability to the Chiefs defence.
Chiefs then strengthened their attack by making Khanyisa Mayo’s move permanent following his loan spell from CR Belouizdad.
The club has also added Tanzanian defensive midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko and goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, giving Da Cruz more depth across the squad.
The big question now is whether these additions can translate into results on the pitch.
For now, however, Chiefs deserve credit for identifying areas of weakness and attempting to address them.
LOSER: Mamelodi Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns remain one of the strongest squads in South African football, but their transfer window has also raised questions.
The Brazilians have lost some major names, including record-breaking striker Peter Shalulile.
Thapelo Maseko also departed for FC Copenhagen, while Miguel Reisinho left the club as a free agent.
Sundowns have responded with several additions, including Antonio van Wyk, Siyanda Ndlovu, Tsiki Ntsabaleng, Cassius Mailula and former Orlando Pirates defender Deano van Rooyen.
There is plenty of potential among the new arrivals, but replacing established stars is never straightforward.
The club’s transfer activity has therefore been more about rebuilding and refreshing the squad than simply adding to an already dominant group.
Coach Miguel Cardoso has also indicated that greater stability should come once the transfer window closes.
That could ultimately determine whether Sundowns remain genuine favourites on all fronts.
WINNER: Orlando Pirates
Orlando Pirates have arguably been the busiest big club in the PSL market.
The reigning champions have reportedly made 10 signings, with Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen among the headline arrivals.
The Buccaneers have also recruited several experienced domestic players, including Thapelo Mokobodi, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Sbangani Zulu and Neo Rapoo.
Much of that activity has been driven by necessity, with injuries and significant departures leaving gaps in the squad.
The biggest loss was undoubtedly Relebohile Mofokeng, who moved to Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
Mofokeng’s creativity and ability to influence games will be difficult to replace, but Pirates have responded aggressively rather than allowing their squad to become thin.
Their recruitment strategy could prove crucial as they attempt to defend their league title while competing on the continental stage.
LOSER: Stellenbosch FC
Stellenbosch FC could be one of the clubs most affected by the movement of players during this window.
The club has already lost key personnel to direct PSL rivals, including Thabo Moloisane to Kaizer Chiefs and Mthetheleli Mthiyane to Orlando Pirates.
The scale of the movement has reportedly frustrated coach Gavin Hunt, who has highlighted how unusual the current transfer market has been.
Stellenbosch’s reported loss of around 20 players makes the situation even more significant.
While the club may have financial reasons for allowing players to leave, replacing that much experience and quality is a major challenge.
With Stellenbosch currently sitting 11th in the league, Hunt will hope the new arrivals can quickly settle and prevent the club from slipping further.
Who has won the transfer window?
There is still plenty of business to be completed before the 22 September deadline, meaning the rankings could change dramatically.
For now, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates appear to be among the biggest winners, thanks to their efforts to strengthen their squads.
Mamelodi Sundowns and Stellenbosch FC, meanwhile, have more questions to answer after losing several established players.
But transfer windows are ultimately judged by what happens on the pitch.
Which PSL club has done the best business so far — and who still needs to make a major signing before deadline day?
