In a stunning turn of events, Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly secured one of the most dramatic transfers in recent local football history. The Soweto giants are on a mission to rebuild their squad for head coach Nasreddine Nabi following a below-par debut campaign. And now, fresh reports claim the club has reached an agreement to sign a high-profile player from none other than arch-rivals Orlando Pirates.
Kaizer Chiefs Eye Former Buccaneers Star
The football scene in the country has been left stunned by rumours suggesting Amakhosi have snapped up Orlando Pirates’ talented winger, Monnapule Saleng. While few would have predicted such a bold move, Saleng’s uncertain position at the Buccaneers adds weight to the speculation.
The 2024/25 season was a troubled one for the Bafana Bafana star. Despite being injury-free, Saleng failed to make a single club appearance in 2025, largely due to unresolved off-field issues. His brief national team showing in March during a CHAN qualifier only deepened the mystery around his club absence.
Sources now claim that Saleng has signed a pre-contract with Kaizer Chiefs, which could see him don the gold and black jersey next season. Reports from Soccer Laduma suggest Saleng was frustrated and even absent without leave at Pirates, prompting a potential move across Soweto.
Pirates Strike Back with Nemtajela Signing
While Chiefs fans were still digesting the Saleng news, Orlando Pirates quickly made their own statement in the transfer market. The Buccaneers have reportedly clinched the signature of Masindi Nemtajela from Marumo Gallants, edging out interest from Chiefs in the process.
Nemtajela, a standout midfielder who made 20 appearances for Gallants last season, was also on Amakhosi’s radar. However, The Citizen reports that Pirates swooped in swiftly to beat their rivals to the deal, securing the 24-year-old on a long-term contract. He is seen as a natural replacement for Miguel Timm, who is expected to depart at the end of the current campaign.
Reinforcements Urgently Needed at Naturena
Kaizer Chiefs have already seen Njabulo Blom leave the club, and their failure to qualify for the MTN8 following a goalless draw with Polokwane City further highlights the urgent need for a squad overhaul. Though the club celebrated a Nedbank Cup triumph, their ninth-place league finish was a major disappointment.
With qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup secured, the pressure is on Chiefs to bolster their ranks ahead of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season. Speaking to the media, coach Nasreddine Nabi confirmed that transfer plans are in full swing.
“We’ve already discussed with the Chairman and the recruitment team. We know exactly where the gaps are,” Nabi told iDiski Times. “I won’t reveal numbers or names, but the process is underway. We want to make sure the team improves significantly next season.”
The Rebuild is On
Despite the challenges, Nabi remains optimistic. He acknowledged that while the league finish was below expectations, winning a domestic trophy was a positive sign. “It wasn’t the season I wanted in terms of standings, but there’s progress. Now we must act on what we’ve learnt,” he concluded.
With transfer battles heating up and both Soweto giants aggressively reshaping their squads, supporters across the country can expect plenty more surprises before the new season kicks off in August. All eyes will be on Naturena and Mayfair as the rivalry enters a new chapter — off the pitch.
Related article: Kaizer Chiefs Transfers 2024\25 – The Complete List
With transfer battles intensifying and key signings shaping both squads, the coming months promise an electrifying build-up to the new season. Kaizer Chiefs’ bold moves signal their intent to challenge strongly, while the fierce Soweto rivalry ensures every transfer twist will be closely watched by fans across the country.