Chess or Checkers: Unpacking the Latest Kaizer Chiefs Transfer Developments Under Nasreddine Nabi

Chess or Checkers: Unpacking the Latest Kaizer Chiefs Transfer Developments Under Nasreddine Nabi

Kaizer Chiefs are deep into what appears to be a significant squad overhaul under the watchful eye of head coach Nasreddine Nabi.

The latest transfer news reveals a flurry of activity, with players departing, returning from loan spells, and potential new recruits firmly on the radar of the Soweto Giants.

Player Departures

Njabulo Blom Returns to St. Louis City SC: Midfielder Njabulo Blom’s loan spell with Kaizer Chiefs has concluded, and he will return to his parent club, St. Louis City SC, in Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. Chiefs confirmed his departure via social media, wishing him well in his MLS endeavors.

Sabelo ‘Bibo’ Radebe Parts Ways with Chiefs: Attacking midfielder Sabelo ‘Bibo’ Radebe is another player who has officially parted ways with Kaizer Chiefs. Details surrounding his departure are yet to be fully disclosed.

Loan Returns

Mduduzi Mdantsane Returns from Richards Bay Loan: Midfielder Mduduzi Mdantsane is back at Naturena after his loan spell with Richards Bay. Having joined Amakhosi in 2023 on a three-year deal, Mdantsane saw considerable game time last season but struggled for consistency in the current campaign at both Chiefs and Richards Bay.

With his contract reportedly expiring in June 2026, his future at the club appears uncertain. Reports suggest that Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler, who previously worked with Mdantsane at Cape Town City, is keen on a reunion, potentially paving the way for his departure from Chiefs as Nabi prepares for a squad overhaul.

Donay Jansen Back in the Fold: Young attacking midfielder Donay Jansen has also returned from his loan spell at SuperSport United. Jansen, the nephew of former Amakhosi star Bernard Parker, signed an improved three-year deal with Chiefs before the season began.

His loan spell at SuperSport was relatively quiet, featuring in just two matches for a total of 42 minutes. He will now be looking to impress coach Nabi and stake a claim in an already competitive attacking midfield department that includes established names like Gaston Sirino, Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, and Pule Mmodi.

Coaching Staff Activity

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has been actively involved in scouting potential new talent. He was recently spotted at the Simba SC versus Singida Black Stars match in Tanzania alongside Thembela ‘Tera’ Maliwa, reigniting speculation about potential signings.

Sources close to Nabi have confirmed that his primary target remains Tanzanian international midfielder Feisal Salum. According to FarPost, Nabi held a crucial meeting with Salum during his trip, underscoring his long-standing interest in the highly-rated player. Chiefs had previously attempted to sign Salum, but negotiations stalled due to a significant disparity in the valuation between the clubs.

That being said, the situation appears to be shifting. Insiders suggest that Salum is highly receptive to Nabi’s vision for Chiefs and is eager to join the club next season. A significant factor that could aid Chiefs’ pursuit is that Salum’s contract with Azam FC is set to expire in just one year, potentially strengthening his bargaining position and making a move more feasible.

The coming weeks and months promise to be pivotal for Kaizer Chiefs as coach Nabi continues to reshape the squad, aiming to bring in players who align with his tactical philosophy and lead the club to a more successful future.