NATURENA, SOUTH AFRICA — Kaizer Chiefs have aggressively launched their roster rebuild ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season. In a bold statement of intent under newly appointed head coach Fernando Da Cruz, the Soweto giants reportedly tabled a massive “players plus cash” trade package to lure Stellenbosch FC’s highly-rated winger, Langelihle Phili, to Naturena.
According to initial reports from FarPost, Amakhosi went to historic lengths to secure the signature of the 21-year-old speedster. The blockbuster package offered to the Winelands outfit reportedly included forward Ashley du Preez, midfielder George Matlou, and a substantial undisclosed cash sum.
Stellies Hold Firm on Phili
Despite the lucrative nature of the multi-player swap proposal, Stellenbosch FC has remained completely unmoved, flatly rejecting the opening bid. Phili, who has only one year remaining on his current contract, has become one of the most sought-after assets in South African football, with his agent Glyn Binkin recently confirming significant interest from both local heavyweights and clubs across Europe.
Strengthening the left wing remains a paramount operational priority for the incoming Da Cruz technical regime, and Phili’s explosive pace and technical profile are viewed internally as the perfect schematic fit for the new-look Glamour Boys.
Major Squad Shake-up Underway at Naturena
While negotiations for Phili remain at a temporary standstill, the Amakhosi front office has wasted no time executing an extensive off-season squad clear-out.
Following the breakdown of the trade proposal, Kaizer Chiefs officially confirmed that they will not renew George Matlou’s contract when it expires at the end of June, making him the second official departure of the window.
Matlou follows highly touted academy graduate Aden McCarthy out of the exit door. In a sensational developmental milestone for the club, McCarthy has completed a permanent European switch to Azerbaijani outfit Sabah FK—a move that lines up the young defender to showcase his talents in the upcoming 2026/27 UEFA Champions League qualifiers.
On the incoming front, Amakhosi have already successfully raided Stellenbosch once this window, securing the signature of defensive stalwart Thabo Moloisane. With the financial backing of the board and clear directives from Fernando Da Cruz, it is highly anticipated that Chiefs will return to the negotiating table with a revised, improved valuation to test Stellies’ resolve for Phili.
