Kaizer Chiefs abandon pursuit of long-time target Fawaaz Basadien as they sign Paseka Mako from Orlando Pirates

After finally ending a decade-long trophy drought, Kaizer Chiefs fans had barely finished celebrating before attention turned to what comes next.

With a place in the CAF Confederation Cup now secured thanks to their thrilling 2-1 win over Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final, the focus has quickly pivoted to how the squad will be strengthened for the challenges ahead.

From Silverware to Strategy: More Matches, More Miles, More Players Needed

Winning the Nedbank Cup was more than just lifting silverware—it punched Chiefs’ ticket into continental football.

But that also means more fixtures, more travel, and a pressing need for depth and quality in the squad.

Chiefs are clearly aware of this, as they’ve already made a number of moves to bolster their roster before heading into pre-season camp in the Netherlands.

Five New Faces Already Through the Door

Reports suggest Chiefs have already signed five new players for the upcoming season, one of the most surprising being Paseka Mako, a left-back snapped up from rivals Orlando Pirates.

Mako’s arrival turned heads—not just because of the club he left, but because it hinted at something else: a possible shift away from a long-term target.

Have Chiefs Abandoned Their Chase for Basadien?

For a while now, Fawaaz Basadien was seen as a key defensive target.

But Mako’s signing may signal a change in direction.

According to Soccer-Laduma sources, Chiefs might be stepping away from the Basadien pursuit, possibly due to difficulties in negotiating with his club or meeting terms.

Another name reportedly slipping off the radar is Mohamed Hussein, with both players seen as difficult to land at this point.

A New Name Emerges: Aphiwe Baliti in the Frame

Instead, the focus has reportedly shifted to Aphiwe Baliti, a player with top-flight experience who might offer the kind of depth Chiefs need.

While younger players have been promoted and will travel with the team to Europe, Baliti’s familiarity with top-tier football gives him an edge.

One source explained, “He has more experience than the youngsters, and that’s why he’s being seriously considered.”

Chiefs Fans Weigh In: Is This a Step Forward or a Step Sideways?

So what do you think, Makhosi? Is it worrying to see the club pivot from someone like Basadien, who’s been on the radar for a while, to players that seem more like backups?

Or is it smart business to adapt and move quickly in a tight market?