Chiefs renew their pursuit of a Bafana Bafana midfielder as his contract nears its end, sparking hopes of finally landing talented playmaker.
Kaizer Chiefs set to chase Thabo Cele again, here is the latest on the saga.
Chiefs’ Initial attempt and Cele’s journey
Back in August 2023, Chiefs reportedly offered Cele a lucrative three-year deal to bring him to the Premier Soccer League (PSL). However, despite their efforts, the midfielder opted for a move to Russia’s FC Fakel Voronezh. This decision came amid interest from Moroccan side ASFAR, underscoring Cele’s growing reputation on the international stage.
Cele’s European adventure began in 2016 when he left South Africa at just 19. Starting with Real Sport Clube in Portugal’s third tier, he quickly caught the eye of Benfica B, joining their ranks in 2017 under the guidance of renowned super-agent Jorge Mendes. From Portugal, he moved to Poland’s Radomiak Radom in 2021, before landing in Russia.
Midfielder built for PSL success
Despite his European experience, Cele remains open to a PSL debut. “There will be a meeting, as the player is keen to come back home,” said a reliable source. “Chiefs are interested, but we will know more after this meeting. Remember, he signed a two-year contract two years ago, so his contract should be done.”
Known for his composure in central midfield, Cele excels at breaking up play and distributing the ball effectively. While he hasn’t quite reached the early heights predicted during his youth career, his skillset makes him a valuable asset for any team.
Will Amakhosi finally secure Cele?
After years of speculation and near misses, Kaizer Chiefs seem determined to bring Cele into their squad. As his contract with FC Fakel Voronezh winds down, the timing might finally align for both parties. Cele’s potential return to South Africa could bolster Chiefs’ midfield, offering a blend of international experience and local flair.
