Kaizer Chiefs fans might want to temper their expectations when it comes to signing Fiston Mayele.

Despite the club’s ambition to bring the CAF Champions League winner to Naturena, the gap between desire and affordability looks tough to close.

R20 Million Gap Could Crush Chiefs’ Mayele Hopes

Reports suggest Kaizer Chiefs are currently R20 million short of Mayele’s asking price.

That’s a massive obstacle, and unless something shifts significantly, it’s unlikely they’ll land one of Africa’s most in-form strikers.

According to the latest from the Siya crew, the only real shot Chiefs have at signing Mayele is if he pushes for a reunion with his former coach, Nasreddine Nabi.

And even then, it would have to be more about loyalty than money.

Pyramids FC Can Offer More—A Lot More

Money is definitely a major factor in this situation. Mayele’s current club, Pyramids FC, is reportedly offering him a solid financial package to stay.

And if he does leave, they’re more inclined to sell him to a club willing to match or exceed their valuation—something Chiefs simply can’t do right now.

Chiefs are reportedly willing to pay a signing-on fee of around R5 million, which would be spread across three seasons.

They’ve also tabled a monthly salary offer between R1 million and R1.5 million.

Respectable numbers, yes, but not enough when wealthier clubs are in the mix.

Strong Competition from North Africa Adds to the Struggle

To make matters worse for Chiefs, they’re not the only ones eyeing Mayele.

Big-name North African clubs are circling too.

With other Egyptian giants showing interest and Pyramids FC keen on keeping him for two more years, the scale is tipping away from a South African move.

One insider noted that the club’s wealthy owners are fully capable of holding onto Mayele and matching or beating any competing offers.

Another source added that with strong Egyptian interest, Mayele might find it easier to just stay put in Cairo—familiar territory, better pay, and less disruption.

What Now for Kaizer Chiefs?

Given how tricky the Mayele situation is looking, maybe it’s time for Chiefs to start exploring other options.

There are certainly other quality strikers out there who might be a better financial and strategic fit for the club.