ITS OVER FOR RULANI | KAIZER CHIEFS STRIKER SIGNING UPDATE

In a development that has stunned the South African football community, it appears that Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has suffered a major blow as Kaizer Chiefs move aggressively in the transfer market to finalize a crucial striker signing.

After weeks of speculation and quiet behind-the-scenes negotiations, reports now suggest that the Amakhosi have not only accelerated talks with a high-profile forward but are close to wrapping up a deal that many believed would fall into the hands of their arch-rivals, Sundowns.

This move marks a strategic and symbolic win for the Chiefs, especially amid mounting pressure to re-establish their dominance in the DStv Premiership.

While Rulani Mokwena has been known for pulling off surprise transfers and building a dominant Sundowns squad, this time it seems the tide is turning against him.

Kaizer Chiefs, long criticized for their slow activity in the transfer window and inability to compete financially with the likes of Sundowns, have clearly shifted gears under the guidance of their current technical team and the expected arrival of coach Nasreddine Nabi.

The striker in question—whose name is being withheld until the final paperwork is completed—is understood to be a dynamic, goal-hungry forward with a proven record in both domestic and continental competitions.

Insiders close to Naturena have described the forward as “a game-changer,” someone who could immediately slot into the starting eleven and provide the firepower the Chiefs have been desperately lacking in recent seasons.

For months, Kaizer Chiefs have struggled to convert chances, often relying on moments of brilliance rather than consistent attacking plays.

Fans have grown increasingly frustrated with the lack of a clinical finisher, and the team’s poor goal return has reflected in their league standings and cup performances.

This signing, once completed, is seen as a direct response to that weakness.

Meanwhile, sources inside the Sundowns camp suggest that Rulani Mokwena had also shown keen interest in the same player.

He had reportedly added the striker to his wish list for the upcoming window, hoping to bolster his attacking options as Sundowns continue to fight on multiple fronts, including domestic trophies and the CAF Champions League.

However, Kaizer Chiefs moved faster and more decisively.

It’s said that key members of the Chiefs board, along with new technical advisors, flew out to meet with the striker’s representatives earlier this month.

They presented a clear project, ambitious targets, and, crucially, a financial package that matched the player’s expectations.

The deal is now in the final stages, with only minor contract clauses and medicals remaining before the official announcement.

For Mokwena, this could represent more than just a missed opportunity.

The Sundowns coach, known for his meticulous planning and recruitment strategy, now faces the reality of missing out on a player who could have offered serious depth in his rotation.

It’s also a rare occasion when Sundowns have been outmaneuvered in the transfer market, especially by one of their closest rivals.

Social media has erupted since the news broke, with Chiefs fans already celebrating what they believe is a major statement of intent.

Memes and celebratory posts have flooded platforms like X and Facebook, with many mocking Sundowns and claiming that “the balance of power is shifting.”

Others are urging the club to follow up with even more signings to ensure a comprehensive rebuild.

While it is still early to predict how the striker will perform in the black and gold jersey, the optimism at Naturena is undeniable.

With Coach Nabi’s arrival imminent and the backing of the board seemingly stronger than ever, there’s a renewed sense of purpose.

The goal is clear: rebuild, reload, and reclaim their place at the top of South African football.

Interestingly, several former players have weighed in on the situation.

Legends of the game have applauded Chiefs for showing ambition and for targeting players who can make an immediate impact rather than long-term prospects alone.

They have also pointed out that such signings send a message—not just to the league, but to the squad itself—that mediocrity will no longer be tolerated.

On the other hand, some have warned that pressure will now be sky-high for the new striker.

Expectations will be immense, and fans will want instant results.

If the player fails to deliver quickly, the backlash could be swift.

For Rulani Mokwena, the road ahead remains challenging.

Despite his many successes at Sundowns, missing out on key targets—especially to direct rivals—can disrupt planning and morale.

It remains to be seen whether Sundowns will retaliate in the market or shift their focus to alternative forwards.

Either way, the upcoming transfer window promises to be one of the most intense in recent memory.

For now, all eyes are on Kaizer Chiefs.

The striker is on his way.

The fans are waiting.

And for Rulani Mokwena, this chapter appears to be closed.

It’s over—at least for this battle.