Kaizer Chiefs Eye European Striker Amid Sundowns Star’s Potential Exit
Breaking news has emerged from the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) that could significantly impact the balance of power in the league.
Lucas Ribeiro Costa, the prolific Brazilian winger who played a pivotal role in Mamelodi Sundowns’ recent success, appears to be on the verge of leaving the club.
According to Ahmed Shobir, a former Egyptian international and respected media figure, Pyramids FC of Egypt are in advanced talks to secure his signature.
Ribeiro’s credentials speak volumes.
He was instrumental in Sundowns clinching their eighth consecutive league title, finishing as the Betway Premiership’s top goal scorer with 16 goals.
His individual brilliance earned him nominations for both Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards.
Notably, he even scored against Pyramids in the CAF Champions League final, a match that ultimately went in favor of the Egyptian side.
The prospect of Ribeiro moving to Pyramids FC has sparked debate among fans and analysts.
Should Sundowns hold on to their star player to maintain dominance, or is it time for Ribeiro to seek new challenges abroad? For Pyramids, signing Ribeiro would be a blockbuster acquisition, especially as they look to fill the void left by Ibrahim Adele.
The transfer, if completed, could reshape regional football dynamics.
Meanwhile, at Kaizer Chiefs, uncertainty clouds the future of goalkeeper Fia Nari.
The Rwandan shot-stopper, signed just a year ago from TS Galaxy for a reported fee near six million rand, has struggled to cement his place in the starting lineup.
His absence from Chiefs’ recent preseason tour in the Netherlands has fueled speculation that the club intends to offload him ahead of the 2025/26 season.
With Brandon Peterson returning from injury and Bruce Vuluma solidifying his spot, Nari has slipped down the pecking order.
Sources close to the club reveal that freeing up a foreign player slot is a key reason behind the technical team’s recommendation to release Nari.
Although no formal offers have surfaced yet, both player and club seem open to parting ways, acknowledging that the partnership has not met expectations.
In terms of strengthening their attack, Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly pursuing a new striker to address their goal-scoring needs.
The club has turned its attention to Belgian-Bosnian forward Zenan Zajovich, recently released by TS Galaxy.
Although not initially on the club’s shortlist, Zajovich quickly became a viable target once he became available, impressing scouts and analysts alike.
However, Zajovich is considered a backup plan.
Chiefs’ preferred target remains Ediosa Ibodaro, a striker whose signing is still under negotiation.
Should the deal for Ibodaro fall through, Zajovich is poised to step in as an alternative.
At 30 years old, Zajovich has demonstrated his ability to score and impact games, making him a practical option for Chiefs’ ambitions.
Fans are divided on whether Zajovich would be a good fit or if the club should continue pushing for Ibodaro.
The decision will likely hinge on timing and negotiations in the coming weeks before the transfer window closes.
Chiefs’ ability to secure a reliable goal scorer could define their competitiveness in the upcoming season.
Elsewhere in the PSL, newly promoted Durban City FC are moving swiftly to bolster their squad.
The club recently announced the signing of veteran goalkeeper Darren Keet, a seasoned Bafana Bafana international.
Keet joins after a four-year stint at Cape Town City FC, who were relegated following a tough campaign.
Durban City’s acquisition of Keet brings experience and leadership to their ranks as they prepare for the challenges of top-flight football.
His presence will be vital in helping the club stabilize defensively and compete effectively in the Betway Premiership.
Returning to Kaizer Chiefs, the club faces critical decisions regarding squad composition and transfer ethics.
With the potential departure of Nari and pursuit of new attacking options, Chiefs must balance immediate needs with long-term strategy.
Additionally, the possible exit of Lucas Ribeiro from Sundowns could alter the competitive landscape, presenting opportunities and challenges for all involved.
The transfer window remains a period of intense speculation and strategic maneuvering.
Chiefs supporters eagerly await clarity on key signings and departures, hoping their team can build a squad capable of challenging for honors.
Meanwhile, the broader PSL community watches closely as player movements continue to shape the league’s future.
In conclusion, Kaizer Chiefs’ transfer activity signals a club in transition, seeking to address weaknesses and capitalize on opportunities.
The potential loss of Sundowns’ star player Lucas Ribeiro adds intrigue, while Chiefs’ search for a dependable striker and goalkeeper reshaping underline their ambition.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Naturena to see how these moves translate on the pitch.
Fans are encouraged to share their opinions on these developments.
Should Chiefs hold firm on their targets or explore alternative options?
Is the potential sale of Lucas Ribeiro a loss for the PSL or a chance for fresh talent to emerge?
These questions remain open as the transfer saga unfolds.
Ultimately, the coming weeks will be decisive for Kaizer Chiefs and the league at large.
The choices made now could define the trajectory of South African football in the seasons ahead.
