As Kaizer Chiefs gear up for a critical pre-season, the spotlight is now on which players will land in Naturena.

With new coach Nasreddine Nabi at the helm, transfer talks are heating up—especially around whether his preferred signings will be honoured or if management will go a different route.

Nabi Has His Eyes on Fresh Defensive Talent

Coach Nasreddine Nabi has a very clear wishlist when it comes to defensive reinforcements.

According to insiders, he’s scouting three right backs: Lwandile Mabuya from Richards Bay, Lungelo Bhengu of Cape Town Spurs, and Mhleli Mabuza, who recently came in from Portugal for trials at Chiefs in May.

On the left side of defence, his top targets are Fawaaz Basadien from Stellenbosch and Simba SC’s Mohamed Hussein from Tanzania.

These names reflect a mix of local PSL talent and a bit of international experience—something Nabi seems keen to blend into his squad.

Chiefs Scouts Prefer Familiar Faces

But here’s where things get interesting. While Nabi is pushing for his chosen defenders, Chiefs’ scouts and management seem to be leaning in another direction.

Reports suggest there’s strong internal interest in signing Thabiso Monyane and Paseka Mako—both former Orlando Pirates players.

This presents a bit of a crossroads for the club.

Will they back their coach’s strategic vision or go with players they’re more familiar with from the local scene?

Former Pirates Players Could Be Unveiled Soon

Despite Nabi’s preferences, it looks increasingly likely that Monyane and Mako could be the ones unveiled in the coming weeks.

These two defenders also bring Bafana Bafana experience, which may be a factor in swaying the club’s decision-makers.

The big question now is whether the club will fully trust their new coach’s input or opt for players who have already proven themselves in the South African top flight.

Chiefs Fans—Your Say Matters

So, what do you think? Should Kaizer Chiefs follow through with Nabi’s defensive targets, or stick with the safer picks in Monyane and Mako?