Kaizer Chiefs youngster Steven Mendes is attracting attention after an impressive spell with Amajita, with reports linking the teenage prospect with interest from Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire.
The 18-year-old has emerged as one of the promising names in the Chiefs development system after making a major impact at the recent COSAFA U20 tournament in Maputo, Mozambique.
Mendes Making His Mark
Mendes, who is primarily a midfielder, was deployed as a striker during the COSAFA tournament and responded by finishing as the competition’s Golden Boot winner.
His performances have strengthened calls for the teenager to be given an opportunity with the Chiefs senior team.
Diski Challenge coach Vela Khumalo has previously backed Mendes’ ability and maturity, suggesting that the youngster has the qualities required to make the step up.
Mendes is also known by the nickname “Stevie G” among some of his teammates.
Chicago Fire Reportedly Monitoring Mendes
Mendes’ performances have reportedly attracted interest from the United States, with MLS club Chicago Fire said to be keeping tabs on the young attacker.
There has been no confirmed announcement of a transfer, however, leaving the teenager’s immediate future at Chiefs open.
For Amakhosi, the situation comes as the club continues to assess its young talent and look for ways to strengthen the senior squad.
Chiefs Face Goal-Scoring Concerns
Chiefs have endured an inconsistent start to their league campaign, drawing four of their opening seven matches and dropping points in four of their last five.
The attacking numbers have also come under scrutiny, with the club scoring just once across its last two league fixtures.
Wandile Duba’s absence has been particularly notable. The forward had scored three goals in four Betway Premiership appearances before being sidelined.
Chiefs’ next league assignment is against Stellenbosch on Saturday, 17 October at 15:30.
Injury News Offers Some Encouragement
There are also positive developments on the injury front.
Langelihle Phili is reportedly targeting a return around mid-October, while defender Rushwin Dortley was named among the substitutes for the recent match against Golden Arrows.
Dortley, 24, has not featured competitively for Chiefs since suffering a serious knee injury in March 2025. His return to the matchday squad therefore represents another step in his recovery.
With Mendes continuing to generate attention, the big question for Chiefs supporters is whether the young prospect will get his senior-team opportunity before the season progresses — or whether reported overseas interest could change the conversation around his future.
