Kaizer Chiefs’ Bold Move: Young Star Signs Long-Term Deal Amid Transfer Drama
Kaizer Chiefs have taken a decisive step towards building for the future by locking down one of their most promising young talents.
Tulani Mabaso, a 20-year-old midfielder, has signed a three-year contract with the club, running from July 2025 through June 2028, with an option to extend for an additional year until 2029.
This long-term deal signals the club’s confidence in Mabaso’s potential and their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
Mabaso impressed Chiefs’ technical team during the recent preseason camp in the Netherlands, where his performances stood out among the squad.
According to insiders familiar with the club’s plans, Mabaso is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming season.
He is reportedly the player most likely to feature regularly among those recently promoted to the senior squad.
The club’s faith in Mabaso is rooted in more than just his preseason form.
Sources close to the team have compared his style and demeanor to that of the departed midfielder Keagan Dolly, suggesting Mabaso could eventually fill the void left by a key player like Keagan.
His readiness to step up to senior football has been praised, with the technical staff believing he can contribute effectively right away.
This signing reflects a broader trend at Kaizer Chiefs toward youth promotion and long-term squad building.
The club appears keen to develop young players who can grow into pivotal roles rather than relying solely on established stars.
With the new season fast approaching, many fans are eager to see if Mabaso will indeed become the breakout star Amakosi need.
Meanwhile, on the outgoing front, former Chiefs striker Ranga Chivaviro is poised for a new chapter.
After two mixed seasons with the club, Chivaviro’s contract ended in June, and he is currently in talks with Chippa United.
The club is keen on bolstering its attacking options, and Chivaviro fits the profile of the experienced forward they need.
However, Chippa United is not the only club interested in Chivaviro.
Sule FC, a team that recently acquired SuperSport United’s Premiership status, is also pursuing him aggressively.
With key players like Bradley Kroa and Terren Zvugam moving on, Sule FC is urgently searching for firepower upfront, and Chivaviro’s availability makes him an attractive target.
Adding to the intrigue, Tanzanian giants Azam FC have entered the race for Chivaviro’s signature.
Their recent appointment of the highly respected Congolese coach Florent Iben signals ambition, and they are eager to strengthen their squad with proven talent from the region.
This international interest opens up possibilities for Chivaviro’s next move, whether it be staying in South Africa or venturing abroad.
Beyond individual transfers, a brewing controversy has emerged involving Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu FC’s pursuit of players from Cape Town Spurs.
With Spurs recently relegated to the third tier, several clubs have eyed their top talent.
Chiefs and AmaZulu reportedly moved quickly to sign Asane Vibayi and Luke Barkman, Spurs players whose contracts remain valid despite the relegation.
Cape Town Spurs’ CEO Alex Estatio has publicly challenged these moves, emphasizing that relegation does not void existing contracts.
He expressed surprise at rumors suggesting Chiefs approached Spurs players without proper negotiations, underscoring the importance of ethical conduct in transfers.
Estatio insists Spurs deserve fair compensation for their investment in player development and expects Chiefs to engage directly to negotiate transfer fees.
This dispute puts both Chiefs and AmaZulu in a difficult position.
If it is found that the players were signed without Spurs’ consent or without appropriate fees, the clubs could face backlash or legal challenges.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions in South African football regarding player transfers, especially involving relegated clubs.
Fans and analysts are divided on the issue.
Some argue that relegated clubs lose leverage and that players should be free to move without hefty fees.
Others contend that honoring contracts and respecting club investments is essential for the integrity and sustainability of the league.
Kaizer Chiefs now face pressure to demonstrate transparency and fairness in their dealings.
As a club with a proud legacy, they are expected to uphold high standards in recruitment and transfer negotiations.
How Chiefs navigate this challenge could influence their reputation and relationships within the South African football community.
In summary, Kaizer Chiefs’ recent activities reveal a club balancing ambition with caution.
The signing of Tulani Mabaso signals a commitment to youth development and future success.
Meanwhile, the potential departure of Ranga Chivaviro and the transfer dispute with Cape Town Spurs underscore the complexities of player movement in modern football.
As the 2025/26 season approaches, all eyes will be on how these developments unfold.
Will Mabaso rise to become a key player for Chiefs?
Where will Chivaviro land, and can he reignite his career?
And how will the transfer saga with Cape Town Spurs resolve?
Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts and keep the conversation going.
Ultimately, these stories reflect the dynamic and sometimes contentious nature of South African football, where talent, ambition, and ethics intersect.
Kaizer Chiefs’ ability to manage these factors effectively will be crucial to their pursuit of glory in the seasons ahead.
