Kaizer Chiefs have been quite active in the 2024/25 transfer window as they attempt to strengthen their squad for the new season. The club had one of their most disappointing seasons of late, finishing the 2023/24 campaign in 10th place. We look at their recent transfer activity and the ongoing rumours of late regarding players coming in and departing Naturena.
Recent Activity
Last season, Chiefs conceded 30 goals (5 more than they scored) in their league campaign. It also seems an area of the squad that coach Nasreddine Nabi has been looking to strengthen. They have brought in Rushwin Dortley (centre-back) and left-back Bongani Sam from rivals Orlando Pirates.
To strengthen their attacking options, Uruguayan winger Gaston Sirino was brought in from defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Elsewhere, Chiefs has further been linked with more defensive prospects with reports linking them to centre-back Ismail Olivier Toure (Stellenbosch FC) and Inacio Miguel (Petro de Luanda).
Gaston Sirino
The Uruguayan now 33 years of age (turning 34 in February 2025) comes as a free transfer from Mamelodi Sundowns. He had reported looked to leave the champions for the past couple of seasons and it’s easy to understand why. Since the 2020/21 campaign, he has not played much football and started no more than 12 league games, with last season being his lowest since he first featured in the PSL in the 2017/18 season. He is still regarded as one of the best technically gifted players in South Africa and Chiefs fans will hope his best days are not behind him.
Ismail Oliver Toure
Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly renewed their interest in Stellenbosch FC defender Ismail Olivier Toure. The central defender played and started 26 league matches for the Cape Winelands outfit playing 2,264 minutes – 84% of available league minutes last term. Although they are yet to submit a formal offer the Glamour Boys are once again keen on the 26-year-old centre-back.
Riaan Hanamub
According to SABC Sport, Kaizer Chiefs have reached out to AmaZulu FC to inquire about the availability of defender Riaan Hanamub. The Glamour Boys reportedly value the Namibia international left-back’s experience, which aligns with coach Nasreddine Nabi’s preference for seasoned players. Chiefs had previously turned their attention to the 29-year-old after unsuccessful attempts to sign Stellenbosch’s left-back, Fawaaz Basadien.
Hanuman has been a regular starter for AmaZulu FC and also previous club Chippa United. Last term, the defender played 28 league matches all of which he also started playing 2,516 minutes of football which equates to (93%) of available minutes throughout the season.
Ashley Du Preez
There have been rumours floating that attacker Du Prrez may be on his way to Portugal with Vitoria SC having shown an interest in the 26-year-old. If he were to leave the club, Chiefs would be losing out on a fast-attacking player who last term scored 4 goals and assisted one.
Conclusion
If they do bring in either of the two defenders mentioned, it reflects the club’s ambition to buy fit and ready who have been able to produce at their previous clubs. This, along with a new coach, a new technical team, and other new players may signal that the club hopes it reflects their ambition to start reclaiming their status as one of South Africa’s top teams.