In a significant move for the upcoming season, Kaizer Chiefs have officially announced the signing of promising midfielder Asanele Velebayi.
The former Cape Town Spurs captain joins the Soweto giants on a long-term contract, a transfer that concludes a protracted dispute and bolsters the Amakhosi’s squad with a player they have long admired.
The acquisition comes after a decisive ruling by the Premier Soccer League’s Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC), which effectively declared Velebayi a free agent.
Read: Cape Town Spurs slams PSL over handling of Kaizer Chiefs target Asanele Velebayi case
This resolution, which has drawn the public ire of Cape Town Spurs, paved the way for Velebayi to realize what he has described as a “lifelong dream” of wearing the iconic Gold and Black of Kaizer Chiefs.
Kaizer Motaung Jr., the club’s Sporting Director, expressed his satisfaction with the new signing. “We are happy to finally have Asanele with us,” he stated on the clubs website.
“He is a great addition, and we believe he will add significant value because he is a perfect fit for our game model and the culture we have here at the Club.” This statement highlights the strategic nature of the transfer, suggesting Velebayi’s playing style aligns with the tactical vision of the Chiefs’ coaching staff.
The 22-year-old Velebayi, a product of the esteemed Ajax Cape Town youth academy, made his senior debut for Cape Town Spurs in 2020. During his time with the club, he made 33 appearances and emerged as a key figure, eventually earning the captain’s armband.
His impressive performances during the 2023/24 season caught the attention of several top-flight clubs, with Kaizer Chiefs being at the forefront of the interest. Spurs, however, managed to retain his services at the time, but the club’s recent troubles and subsequent relegation from the Motsepe Foundation Championship have changed the landscape entirely.
Velebayi’s arrival at Naturena, the Chiefs’ training ground, marks a new chapter in his career and adds a new dimension to the Amakhosi’s midfield. His signing is a clear statement of intent from the Nedbank Cup champions, who are looking to build on their recent success and mount a strong challenge in both domestic and continental competitions.
Kaizer Chiefs will look to build momentum in the Betway Premiership after securing all three points against Stellenbosch on the opening weekend of the 2025/26 PSL season. Their next challenge comes on Wednesday, 12 August 2025, when they host Polokwane City at FNB Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 19:30.