NABI’S SECRET SHORTLIST EXPOSED: The Star Players He Wants to SIGN FIRST for a Total Chiefs Takeover

As Kaizer Chiefs gear up for a crucial transfer window, all eyes are on head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who is set to take the reins with a clear strategy and bold vision for reshaping the squad.

After weeks of speculation, it’s now confirmed that Nabi has identified a shortlist of players who he believes will form the backbone of a new era at Naturena.

These players are not just signings — they represent the transformation he hopes to spark in a team that has gone far too long without silverware.

According to sources close to the club, Nabi has emphasized three core areas in need of immediate reinforcement: central midfield, the forward line, and defensive depth.

His selections are a mix of local talent and seasoned African professionals, many of whom he has either worked with before or studied extensively during his time coaching across the continent.

At the top of Nabi’s list is a commanding box-to-box midfielder who can control the tempo of matches while also contributing to goals.

Chiefs have long struggled to find consistency in the middle of the park, with injuries and poor form hampering the impact of previous signings.

Nabi is reportedly eyeing a dynamic player from the Moroccan Botola Pro League — someone who can dictate the pace and bring physicality to a midfield that has too often looked flat.

The second priority is a goal-scoring striker who can deliver week in and week out.

Chiefs’ lack of firepower in recent seasons has been one of their most glaring weaknesses.

Despite several attempts to find a consistent goal threat, no player has managed to fill the void left by past legends.

Nabi is believed to be monitoring two options closely — one based in Tunisia, and another currently playing in the Tanzanian Premier League.

Both players have scored prolifically in recent seasons and are seen as ideal fits for the high-tempo, pressing style Nabi wants to implement.

Defensive solidity is also high on his agenda.

Though Chiefs have had standout performers like Siyabonga Ngezana and Zitha Kwinika in patches, the team has lacked depth and leadership at the back.

Nabi wants a versatile center-back who can organize the backline, lead from the back, and play out under pressure.

One of the names being mentioned is an Algerian international currently plying his trade in the Egyptian Premier League.

With leadership qualities and strong aerial presence, this player could be the key to stabilizing Chiefs’ defense once and for all.

But Nabi isn’t just thinking about short-term impact — he’s also planning for the future.

He has asked the club to invest in younger talent, particularly from South Africa’s U23 setup.

Several youth prospects have caught his attention, and he reportedly wants two young attacking midfielders brought into the senior squad immediately to begin grooming them for long-term roles.

Nabi believes that nurturing local talent must go hand-in-hand with recruiting experienced professionals.

Behind the scenes, the Chiefs board is said to be backing Nabi’s vision wholeheartedly.

There is growing confidence that the club, under his leadership, can rebuild both its identity and its winning mentality.

Nabi’s ability to bring structure and tactical clarity to a squad has been praised throughout his career, and Chiefs are banking on him to do just that — especially in a league that continues to grow in competitiveness each year.

His meticulous approach to scouting has also drawn attention.

Unlike some coaches who rely heavily on agents or highlight reels, Nabi is known to spend hours watching full-match footage of targets, evaluating not just their technical skills but their decision-making, body language, and ability to handle pressure in difficult matches.

He wants players who can think, adapt, and fight — not just those with flair.

Nabi has also requested more influence in the final say of signings, something that past coaches at Chiefs did not always enjoy.

This time, the club appears ready to grant him full authority on player recruitment, signaling a serious shift in policy.

Fans are hopeful this will lead to smarter acquisitions and fewer misfires in the transfer market.

While names have yet to be officially confirmed, insiders suggest that initial talks have already begun with agents and clubs regarding the top targets.

The transfer window opens in a matter of weeks, and Kaizer Chiefs are wasting no time.

A new training regimen is already being drawn up to prepare for the arrival of new players, with plans to integrate them into the squad as early as possible to ensure a smooth transition.

Players currently in the squad are also on alert.

Nabi has made it clear that every spot must be earned, and that no player — regardless of seniority — will be guaranteed a place in the starting eleven.

This renewed sense of competition could bring out the best in underperforming players and help reignite the hunger in a dressing room that has, at times, looked disjointed.

For Kaizer Chiefs supporters, the message is clear: change is coming.

And not just in the form of new faces, but in attitude, discipline, and ambition.

Nabi’s arrival marks the beginning of a serious project, one built on planning rather than panic, structure instead of improvisation.

If the club can secure the players on Nabi’s wishlist, and if they are given the space to adapt to his system, then the 2024/2025 season could be the turning point Amakhosi fans have waited for.

With the right mix of talent, leadership, and vision, Kaizer Chiefs may finally be ready to return to the summit of South African football.

But it all starts with this transfer window — and Nabi’s first moves could determine whether the dream becomes reality.