As Kaizer Chiefs gear up for another big rebuild ahead of the new season, it looks like their scouts might be zooming in on a potential gem up north in East Africa.
Word on the street is that they’ve got their eyes on Tanzanian striker Denis Kibu, a player who’s been quietly making waves with Simba SC.
So, who exactly is Kibu, and why are Chiefs watching him so closely?
Denis Kibu Standing Out on the Continental Stage
At 26 years old, Denis Kibu isn’t just any striker. He’s been showing serious promise during Simba SC’s CAF Confederation Cup run this season.
According to Transfermarkt, he’s bagged four goals in 12 appearances — not a bad return for someone competing on one of the biggest stages in African club football.
He’s currently under the watchful eye of coach Fadlu Davids, and his club Simba SC has made it all the way to the CAF Confederation Cup final, where they’ll face Morocco’s RS Berkane.
That’s the kind of platform that puts players directly in the transfer spotlight — and Kaizer Chiefs are clearly paying attention.
What’s the Deal with His Contract?
Now here’s where it gets interesting. Kibu joined Simba back in 2021, and he’s not a free agent. In fact, he extended his contract just last year, so he’s locked in until June 2026.
That means Chiefs — or any club wanting to sign him — will need to negotiate with Simba and likely cough up a decent transfer fee.
So if Amakhosi are serious about bringing him to Naturena, they’ll need to open the chequebook and make a convincing offer.
Nabi’s Familiarity with Tanzania Could Be a Factor
One big reason Kaizer Chiefs are often linked to Tanzanian-based players? Their coach Nasreddine Nabi. He knows the Tanzanian league inside out.
After spending time there before coming to Chiefs, he’s already aware of which players could adapt to the fast, high-pressure environment of the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL).
So Kibu’s name popping up isn’t too surprising — he fits the profile of a player Nabi might want to work with.
Chiefs Have a Whole Shortlist of Forwards
But Kibu isn’t the only name on Chiefs’ radar.
Here are some of the other players they’re reportedly looking at to boost their front line:
Fiston Mayele
A name well known to Nabi, Mayele thrived under him at Young Africans SC, scoring a jaw-dropping 54 goals in 50 games.
He’s now with Pyramids FC in Egypt, and while his connection with Nabi makes him an appealing option, the hefty transfer fee could be a big obstacle.
Oh, and Orlando Pirates are interested too, which only adds to the pressure.
Michael Olunga
Now this one’s a long shot. Olunga is a goal machine, currently banging in goals in Qatar with 74 goals in 73 matches for Al-Duhail SC.
There’s no denying his talent — but his salary expectations are sky-high, which could scare off budget-conscious Chiefs.
Jonathan Sowah
Another exciting talent, Sowah plays in Libya for Al-Nasr Benghazi and brings international experience with Ghana.
He’s fast, strong, and a sharp finisher — all traits that would make him a strong contender in the PSL.
Chiefs are reportedly keeping close tabs on him too.
Would Kibu Be a Good Fit for Chiefs?
That’s the big question. Kibu has been consistent, and playing in the CAF Confederation Cup final means he’s gaining experience at a high level.
He’s not the flashiest name, but he’s affordable, adaptable, and already proven in African competitions.
Given Nabi’s knowledge of the player and the Tanzanian league, Kibu might just be the type of smart, strategic signing Chiefs need — especially if they want a forward who won’t need months to adapt.
So, What’s Next?
Well, it’s clear Kaizer Chiefs are on the hunt for a reliable striker — and Denis Kibu is one of several names on their shopping list.
Whether he ends up at Naturena will depend on how serious Chiefs are, and whether Simba are open to negotiating.
But one thing’s for sure — Chiefs fans can expect movement in the transfer window, and it might just start with a call to Tanzania.