Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa’s most popular and successful football clubs, have entered a busy transfer period as they prepare for the upcoming 2025/26 season.
Recent reports confirm that Ugandan star striker Derrick Mukwala has joined Chiefs in a swap deal, ending months of speculation and rumors.
This signing comes amid a broader recruitment drive by the Suido Giants, who are strengthening their squad for both domestic and continental competitions.
The transfer saga surrounding Derrick Mukwala has finally reached a conclusion.
Mukwala, a key player for Tanzanian giants Simba SC, has reportedly ended his contract with Simba and was recently seen training with Kaizer Chiefs.
This marks the end of a long period of speculation regarding his future.
Mukwala’s arrival is expected to bolster Chiefs’ attacking options significantly.
Known for his pace, technical ability, and goal-scoring instincts, Mukwala has been a standout performer in the Tanzanian Premier League and CAF competitions.
His move to Kaizer Chiefs is seen as a strategic acquisition to enhance the club’s firepower ahead of a challenging season.
The swap deal reportedly involves an exchange of players between Simba and Chiefs, although details remain closely guarded.
This kind of deal is becoming more common in African football, allowing clubs to balance their squads and budgets effectively.
Kaizer Chiefs have not stopped at Mukwala.
The club has unveiled three other new signings as part of their preparations for the 2025/26 season, signaling a clear intent to compete strongly on multiple fronts.
Portuguese forward Flavio Silva joins Chiefs from Indonesian club Persea Surabaya.
Silva, who sports the number 77 jersey, is known for his sharp finishing and physical presence on the pitch.
Last season, he scored nine goals in 33 appearances, adding to an impressive record of 30 goals in 45 matches for Persik Kadiri.
Silva’s arrival adds depth and quality to Chiefs’ frontline, providing a different style of striker compared to Mukwala.
His experience in diverse leagues and ability to adapt quickly will be valuable as Chiefs aim to challenge for the Premier Soccer League (PSL) title and make an impact in the CAF Confederation Cup.
To inject creativity and playmaking ability into the midfield, Chiefs have signed 26-year-old Ethan Chislett.
Born in Durban, Chislett returns to South Africa after gaining valuable experience in England and Spain.
Most recently, he played a pivotal role at Port Vale, where his vision and ability to unlock defenses were instrumental to the team’s attacking play.
Chislett’s skill set is expected to bring much-needed spark and depth to Chiefs’ midfield, helping to link defense and attack more effectively.
His return to South Africa is seen as a homecoming that could rejuvenate his career and provide Chiefs with a versatile midfield option.
In defense, Chiefs have secured the services of left-back Mkiso Sherna from Portuguese club FC Alver.
The 25-year-old Durban native is a versatile player capable of operating not only as a full-back but also in midfield and further up the flank.
Sherna’s versatility will give the coaching staff tactical flexibility and cover across multiple positions, an asset in a long season with domestic and continental commitments.
His familiarity with European football standards is expected to raise the defensive quality of the squad.
All the new signings, including Mukwala, Silva, Chislett, and Sherna, are set to join the rest of the squad for a preseason training camp in the Netherlands.
The camp, scheduled to begin shortly after July 3rd, will provide the team with an opportunity to gel, adapt to the coach’s tactical demands, and build fitness ahead of the season.
Training abroad is part of Chiefs’ broader strategy to prepare the squad physically and mentally for the challenges of the PSL and CAF Confederation Cup.
Exposure to different playing styles and high-quality training facilities is expected to benefit the players and coaching staff alike.
In addition to confirmed signings, Kaizer Chiefs are closely monitoring the situation of Police Caris, a creative midfielder whose contract with Mamelodi Sundowns expired on June 30th, 2025.
Caris is currently a free agent, attracting interest from multiple PSL clubs, including Chiefs and their fierce rivals Orlando Pirates.
Caris’ availability presents an exciting opportunity for Chiefs to strengthen their midfield further.
Known for his creativity and ability to dictate play, Caris could be a valuable addition to Chiefs’ squad if negotiations succeed.
However, reports also indicate that Orlando Pirates are keen contenders in this race, setting up a potential transfer battle between the two giants.
The competition for Caris underscores the intensity of the PSL transfer market and the importance clubs place on securing top talent.
Kaizer Chiefs’ aggressive recruitment drive reflects a clear ambition to reclaim their status as one of South Africa’s top football clubs.
The combination of proven goal scorers like Mukwala and Silva, creative midfielders like Chislett, and versatile defenders like Sherna provides a well-rounded squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
The club’s willingness to engage in swap deals and monitor free agents like Police Caris shows a pragmatic approach to squad building, balancing financial considerations with the need for quality players.
Moreover, the preseason training camp in Europe indicates a professional and forward-thinking preparation strategy, aimed at ensuring the squad is ready physically, tactically, and mentally for the challenges ahead.
While the new signings bring hope, Chiefs face the challenge of integrating these players quickly and effectively.
Chemistry on the pitch, understanding of the coach’s tactics, and adaptation to the PSL’s intensity will be critical factors in determining the success of this recruitment drive.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Mukwala performs in his new environment, especially given the hype surrounding his signing.
The pressure will be on him to justify the swap deal and contribute goals that can win matches.
Similarly, the performances of Silva, Chislett, and Sherna will be scrutinized as Chiefs look to build a balanced team capable of challenging for the PSL title and making a deep run in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Kaizer Chiefs have made significant strides in the transfer market, confirming Derrick Mukwala’s arrival and unveiling key signings across all areas of the pitch.
These moves signal a club determined to rebuild and compete at the highest level in South African and African football.
With a blend of youthful energy, international experience, and local talent, Chiefs are positioning themselves for a successful 2025/26 season.
The upcoming preseason training camp in the Netherlands will be crucial for team cohesion and preparation.
As the new season approaches, supporters can look forward to exciting football, fresh faces, and renewed hope that Kaizer Chiefs will once again be a dominant force in the PSL and beyond.
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