Kaizer Chiefs’ rebuilding project ahead of the 2026/27 season is showing no signs of slowing down, with the club expected to trim its squad further before the transfer window closes.
Having already secured several new arrivals, Amakhosi are now weighing additional exits as head coach Fernando Da Cruz continues reshaping the team.
The Soweto giants have already parted ways with a number of senior players, but reports suggest at least three more members of the current squad could be heading for the exit door in the coming days.
Four New Faces Arrive at Naturena
Chiefs have been active in the transfer market, strengthening key areas of the squad with four new additions.
The club has signed striker Khanyisa Mayo from CR Belouizdad, defender Thabo Moloisane from Stellenbosch FC, goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner from Sekhukhune United and Tanzanian midfielder Adolf Bitegeko.
These signings underline the club’s ambition to improve after an inconsistent campaign, although management appears determined to continue fine-tuning the squad before the new season begins.
Meanwhile, Happy Mashiane, George Matlou, Gaston Sirino and Tashreeq Morris have already been released as part of the ongoing overhaul.
Ashley Du Preez Could Be Set for an Exit
Forward Ashley Du Preez is among the players whose future remains uncertain.
Since arriving at Naturena, the 29-year-old has delivered moments of quality, including a memorable brace in the Soweto Derby, but injuries and inconsistent performances have prevented him from becoming the club’s undisputed first-choice striker.
Speculation continues to link Du Preez with a return to Stellenbosch FC. Reports have even suggested that a potential swap arrangement involving winger Langelihle Phili could be explored if negotiations progress.
Midfield Role Becoming Unclear for Thabo Cele
Another player facing uncertainty is midfielder Thabo Cele, who initially impressed supporters after joining Chiefs in January 2025.
His calm presence in midfield and ability to dictate play quickly earned him a regular place under former coach Nasreddine Nabi.
However, changes within the coaching setup appear to have altered his standing.
Following the arrival of Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze to the technical team, Cele found himself spending more time on the bench.
The 28-year-old also missed much of the club’s pre-season preparations, and with Fernando Da Cruz now in charge, competition for places has intensified, leaving his long-term future at the club in doubt.
Samkelo Zwane Faces Another Crucial Decision
Young midfielder Samkelo Zwane is another player who may struggle for opportunities this season.
The 23-year-old spent the previous campaign on loan at Siwelele FC, where he sought regular first-team football after finding minutes difficult to come by at Chiefs.
Despite returning to Naturena, Zwane still faces stiff competition in midfield, making another loan spell—or even a permanent move—a realistic possibility before the transfer window shuts.
Chiefs Expected to Keep Reshaping the Squad
With several new recruits already integrated into the squad and further signings still possible, Kaizer Chiefs are expected to continue making difficult decisions regarding player departures.
As Fernando Da Cruz prepares for his first full campaign in charge, the club appears focused on building a squad capable of challenging consistently, even if that means saying goodbye to more familiar faces before the transfer deadline.
