OPINION: Kaizer Chiefs can fix their three biggest problems with less than R10 million

Kaizer Chiefs have identified three areas where they want to strengthen the squad and they won’t need to break the bank to get their targets.

Kaizer Chiefs want reinforcements in three key areas

According to iDiskiTimes reporter Lorenz Kohler, Chiefs are dead-set on finding a new left-back, goalkeeper and striker.

“Sources have previously indicated a striker, left-back and goalkeeper remain among the priority targets for the club in the upcoming weeks, while several players who are out of contract, will have final decisions on extensions or being released in the coming days,” iDiski Times reported.

Nasreddine Nabi has identified Orebonye as his first signing as Chiefs boss. Image: Facebook

Maova is a cheaper alternative to Nwabali

According to UnplayableZA on X, Chiefs have inquired about possibly signing Tuks ‘keeper Edward Maova. The 29-year-old Namibian made three appearances in last season’s Nedbank Cup and stands 1.92m tall. He’s only been with AmaTuks for 11 months after joining them from Pretoria Callies in 2023. Is he pedigreed enough to replace Itumeleng Khune? One thing is for sure, Maova won’t cost nearly as much as long-standing target Stanley Nwabali, who was valued at R30 million by Chippa. Maova will cost next to nothing.

Left-back remains a problem position

If Chiefs can secure a deal for Maova, they’ll still be looking for a new left-back to replace Sifiso Hlanti. Fawaaz Basadien recently signed a new deal with Stellenbosch, but full-backs aren’t traditionally the most expensive puzzle pieces in the market. The other obvious area needing strengthening is up top.

Goals are in desperate need

Jasond Gonzalez has left the club after a disastrous short loan spell where he played 13 times with zero goals and zero assists and none of the club’s existing striker options have been convincing. There’s talk that incoming boss Nasreddine Nabi wants to bring Tumisang Orebonye along with him to Naturena. Orebonye will be an option as a free transfer as he only signed a short-term deal with AS FAR. The Botswana star, who knows Thatayaone Ditlhokwe well, has priceless experience in the CAF Champions League. The 28-year-old has 40 caps for his national team.

The Kaizer Chiefs Naturena Village in all its glory. Image: Ernest Makhaya

Dolly’s dismal Chiefs tenure is over

Another area where Chiefs will be saving huge sums of money is by getting Keagan Dolly’s salary off the wage bill. He was the best paid player in the league while on their books but hardly ever justified it with on-pitch performances.

It’s possible to envisage Chiefs landing all three targets for a combined outlay of less than R10 million before wages and signing-on fees.