The structural overhaul at Naturena is picking up serious speed. As Kaizer Chiefs unpack their bags in Europe for a critical pre-season training camp, the high-profile omission of midfield anchor Thabo Cele from the traveling squad has signaled an imminent departure.
After losing his starting spot during the latter half of the 2025/26 campaign, insiders report that Cele is on the verge of being sacrificed as the club radically shifts its budget toward landing heavy-hitting attacking free agents.
The Target: Will Chiefs Move for Peter Shalulile?
With several roster spots opening up, Amakhosi management is heavily tipped to target premium, proven PSL goal-scorers to reinforce their front line.
- The Peter Shalulile Factor: Legendary Namibian marksman Peter Shalulile is officially a free agent. With Chiefs desperately needing a ruthless, experienced talisman to support the newly permanent Khanyisa Mayo, a blockbuster swoop for Shalulile is heavily being discussed in the corridors of Naturena.
- The Financial Incentive: Getting the squad firing early is paramount. Next month, Kaizer Chiefs will make their highly anticipated return to the MTN8 tournament for the first time in three seasons, putting them in a direct, high-pressure battle for the lucrative R10 million winner-takes-all prize money.
The Naturena Revolving Door: Who is In and Who is Out?
The club’s quality-over-quantity approach this window has already seen significant movement across the first-team roster:
Confirmed Departures:
- Aden McCarthy (Transferred to Europe)
- Tashreeq Morris (Contract End)
- George Matlou (Released)
- Happy Mashiane (Released)
On the Chopping Block / Contract Limbo:
- Gaston Sirino: The veteran playmaker’s contract expired in June, and he has yet to agree to new terms.
- Ashley Du Preez: Faces an increasingly uncertain future after failing to find consistent, lethal form over the past two seasons.
Marquee Arrivals:
- Thabo Moloisane (Center-back, signed from Stellenbosch FC)
- Renaldo Leaner (Bafana Bafana goalkeeper)
