Kaizer Chiefs accelerate move for Etiosa Ighodaro as Dutch pre-season tour approaches in the Netherlands

With pre-season just around the corner, Kaizer Chiefs are wasting no time in shaping their squad for the 2025/26 campaign—and it looks like Etiosa Ighodaro is back on their radar in a big way.

The Soweto giants are ramping up their pursuit of the Mamelodi Sundowns striker, hoping to finally seal a deal that’s been years in the making.

A Longstanding Interest Rekindled

This isn’t the first time the Chiefs have tried to land Ighodaro.

The Nigerian forward impressed them during his loan stint at Chippa United, but back then, Sundowns weren’t open to letting him go to a rival.

Instead, he was sent on loan to SuperSport United, putting the deal on ice.

But that was then—and now, Amakhosi appear to be going all in, more determined than ever to bring him to Naturena.

Visa Application Hints at a Big Move

What’s sparked fresh buzz? Ighodaro has applied for a visa to the Netherlands, which strongly suggests he could be part of Chiefs’ touring squad for their upcoming pre-season camp.

That move has fans speculating that the deal may be as good as done.

After scoring six goals last season on loan at AmaZulu FC, the striker seems to have fallen out of favour with Sundowns, leaving the door wide open for a permanent transfer.

Shift in Strategy After Mayele Setback

Sources close to the club say that Chiefs have shifted their focus after hitting a roadblock in their efforts to sign Fiston Mayele.

The Congolese striker has reportedly shown no interest in moving to South Africa, prompting the club to move quickly on Plan B—Ighodaro.

“Chiefs know they need a striker in the squad before the Dutch pre-season tour kicks off,” said an insider.

“And with Mayele not an option, Ighodaro is now their top target.”

A New Leader, A New Attack

Under new management, Chiefs are clearly aiming to refresh their attack.

The club continues to scout other options, but Ighodaro’s name keeps rising to the top of the list.

With his track record in the Premier Soccer League and the advantage of already having experience in South African football, he could be the ideal fit to lead the line.

Final Push Before Pre-Season

As the countdown to the Netherlands tour begins, Kaizer Chiefs look set to make their move—and this time, they’re not backing down.

All signs point to Ighodaro making that switch, with only final details standing in the way.