Kaizer Chiefs’ Transfer Blitz: Ethan Chislett Joins and Lebohang Lesako Back in the Fold?

Kaizer Chiefs are making serious moves ahead of the 2025/26 season, with reports confirming multiple key signings and renewed interest in former academy talent Lebohang Lesako.

The club’s recruitment drive is gathering momentum, highlighted by the exciting acquisition of English-based midfielder Ethan Chislett, who has opted to join Chiefs despite offers from other European clubs.

Alongside this, Chiefs are closely monitoring Lesako’s progress as they look to strengthen their squad depth.

This article unpacks these developments and what they mean for the Glamour Boys as they prepare for a competitive campaign.

The headline signing is undoubtedly Ethan Chislett, a 26-year-old midfielder who spent last season with Port Vale in England’s League Two.

Chislett impressed with four goals and three assists in just 25 games, building on a solid career that includes over 120 appearances for Wimbledon, where he scored 16 goals and provided eight assists.

His decision to join Kaizer Chiefs reportedly involved turning down offers from clubs like Motherwell and Wigan Athletic, making his move to Naturena a significant coup.

Chislett is believed to have signed a two-year contract with an option to extend, signaling Chiefs’ confidence in his long-term contribution.

His playing style has drawn comparisons to Fasil Salum from Azam FC, another midfielder linked with the club.

This raises questions about how both players might fit into head coach Nazrred Nabi’s tactical plans.

Will Chislett’s arrival limit Salum’s chances, or can the team accommodate both creative midfielders?

Meanwhile, the club is rekindling interest in Lebohang Lesako, a 24-year-old midfielder who came through Chiefs’ development structures before seeking opportunities elsewhere.

Lesako has been shining for Casric Stars in the Motsepe Foundation Championship and has played a pivotal role in their push for promotion to the PSL.

Chiefs scouts have been closely following his progress and are reportedly keen to bring him back to Naturena.

Lesako’s journey is a testament to perseverance.

After limited first-team chances at Chiefs, he moved to the lower divisions to revive his career and has since demonstrated consistent growth both on and off the pitch.

While Casric Stars are currently engaged in promotion playoffs, which may delay any immediate transfer moves, sources confirm that Chiefs’ interest remains strong and could materialize once the playoffs conclude.

This strategy of re-signing former academy players who have matured elsewhere highlights Chiefs’ commitment to nurturing talent while bolstering their squad with proven performers.

Lesako’s potential return would add depth and familiarity to the midfield options available to coach Nabi.

Beyond transfers, former Leeds United captain Lucas Radebe has praised Mamelodi Sundowns’ performance at the FIFA Club World Cup, underscoring the growing stature of South African clubs on the global stage.

Sundowns currently hold third place in their group after a narrow loss to Borussia Dortmund and a vital win over Al-Hilal Hyundai.

Radebe’s confidence in Sundowns’ ability to compete at this elite level reflects positively on the overall quality of South African football.

Radebe emphasized that African teams, including Sundowns, are closing the gap with traditional football powerhouses through improved quality and tactical sophistication.

His remarks serve as a reminder that clubs like Kaizer Chiefs must continue evolving to remain competitive domestically and internationally.

As Kaizer Chiefs prepare for their pre-season tour in the Netherlands, the integration of new signings like Chislett and the possible return of Lesako will be crucial.

The club appears focused on blending youthful energy with experienced talent to mount a serious challenge in the upcoming season.

The signing of Chislett also suggests a tactical shift, potentially adding more creativity and goal threat from midfield.

How this affects existing players, especially those competing for similar roles, will be a storyline to watch as the season unfolds.

In conclusion, Kaizer Chiefs are not holding back in their quest to reclaim dominance in South African football.

The acquisition of Ethan Chislett is a statement of intent, while the pursuit of Lebohang Lesako signals a smart approach to squad building.

Coupled with positive developments at other clubs like Sundowns, the PSL promises an exciting season ahead.

Fans can look forward to seeing how these new and returning players impact the team’s style and results.

Will Chislett become the midfield maestro Chiefs need?

Can Lesako’s homecoming spark fresh creativity?

Only time will tell, but the foundations appear strong for a thrilling campaign.