Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly in a strong position to sign Bafana Bafana midfielder Thabo Cele, with talks gaining momentum after two previous unsuccessful attempts. The 27-year-old midfielder was recently released by his Russian club, FC Fakel Voronezh, due to personal family health issues. The club confirmed the termination of his contract, stating that it was due to "serious health problems in the family," offering their best wishes for Cele's future career and his family's health.
Following his release, Cele is only allowed to play for South African clubs for the remainder of his current contract, which positions him as a key target for local teams. While both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have not pursued him, Kaizer Chiefs appear to be the front-runners for his signature. Amakhosi have already made one significant signing this January, bringing in Tashreeq Morris, and now they could add Cele to their squad.
Kaizer Chiefs had reportedly shown interest in Cele as far back as last year. Although the club secured Njabulo Blom as a midfielder this season, Blom has since been shifted to a right-back position, creating space in midfield that could be filled by Cele. The Chiefs’ scouts have been following Cele for nearly three years, and reports suggest that the club has been in regular contact with his representatives, with discussions progressing positively.
Cele is expected to fill a defensive midfield role at Chiefs, potentially replacing Siyethemba Sithebe, who has been playing in that position. This opportunity could be realized during the current transfer window, depending on how negotiations unfold.
The midfielder’s future now appears to be in Kaizer Chiefs’ hands, although both Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates may still consider him if any of their midfielders were to suffer an injury. While it remains uncertain whether he will join Chiefs immediately, his return to South Africa has sparked interest, with Amakhosi seemingly leading the race to secure his services. Time will tell whether they will act on the opportunity and finalize the deal during this transfer window.
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