As Kaizer Chiefs aim for a top-three finish this season and a stronger position in the 2025/26 campaign, strengthening their midfield appears to be a priority for both the club and head coach Nasreddine Nabi.
Currently sitting in eighth place in the Betway Premiership, Chiefs are just six points behind third-place, meaning a significant climb up the table is still within reach. Despite the challenges, bolstering their midfield ranks could be key to achieving those ambitions.
Interest in Sphephelo Sithole
One of Chiefs’ targets is 26-year-old Sphephelo Sithole, currently at Gil Vicente in Portugal. His agent, Manuel Tomas, confirmed that discussions have taken place but no official offer has been made yet.
Tomas stated: “In December, yes, we received some calls from the club (Chiefs). We don’t know what will happen… it’s football. But we haven’t received an official offer from Chiefs for Sithole.”
Sithole suffered a broken leg while on international duty with Bafana Bafana last year but is expected to return to action soon. He’s on loan from Tondela to Gil Vicente, with his loan term ending soon. Tomas added, “When the loan ends, we don’t know what the future holds.”
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Feisal Salum Also on Chiefs’ Radar
Another player reportedly being considered is Tanzania international Feisal Salum, who plays for Azam FC. The 27-year-old was believed to be a target during the January transfer window and brings valuable experience, having earned 45 caps for Tanzania.
Azam FC spokesperson Thabit Zacharia confirmed the club would entertain offers for Salum, but no official bids have been made. “We expect Feisal to deliver results because we are paying him a lot of money,” said Zacharia. “If a team makes an offer that meets our expectations, we won’t stand in his way.”
Ntwari Linked to Overseas Move
In addition to their midfield pursuit, Kaizer Chiefs’ goalkeeper Ntwari has been linked with a potential move abroad. Since the start of the year, interest in the 25-year-old shot-stopper has emerged from multiple clubs, including Kazakhstan, following an initial inquiry from Saudi Arabia’s second division.
Ntwari’s Limited Game Time at Chiefs
Ntwari joined Chiefs from TS Galaxy at the beginning of the season and was initially their first-choice goalkeeper. However, he struggled to maintain form, conceding 11 goals in seven matches. After this dip, Bruce Bvuma took over as the starter. Ntwari last featured for Chiefs in November 2024.
Despite limited game time at the club, Ntwari has kept his international career active, making three appearances since his last match for Chiefs. He most recently played in a World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, conceding two goals in a 2-0 loss.
Also read: Kaizer Chiefs’ Rebuild: Nabi Calls for Patience and Time
Euro and Kazakh Interest in Ntwari
Ntwari’s name continues to circulate in transfer discussions, and there has been interest from European clubs, although a potential deal fell through earlier this year. The latest opportunity for the 25-year-old comes from Kazakhstan, with discussions expected to progress in the next transfer window.
“There have been opportunities considered, and we will revisit them in the next window depending on what comes from those who brought his name to us,” an agent close to the talks revealed.
Kaizer Chiefs Potential Departures and Arrivals
With both Sithole and Salum potentially on their way to Chiefs and Ntwari linked with an overseas move, the club is gearing up for changes in the transfer window. Strengthening the midfield remains a priority, but the goalkeeper’s future is also a key factor in the club’s plans.
Fans will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold as Chiefs look to bolster their squad for the 2025/26 season.
