Kaizer Chiefs reportedly turned down the opportunity to sign a top CAF Confederation Cup winning international who keen to join in January.
Kaizer Chiefs may have not made signings in the January transfer window, but that seems to have been by choice.
Chiefs were sixth on the DStv Premiership log, with interim coach Cavin Johnson dismissing the possibility of new signings.
Johnson had often alluded to the media that, he believes in the current crop of players at Chiefs. For that reason he says he just needs more time to coach them, rather than go into the market. Although many may have taken his statements with a pinch of salt, as they sounded diplomatic, they may be true.
During the previous transfer window, Chiefs had been linked with the likes of Fawaaz Basadien from Stellenbosch FC. Oswin Appollis of Polokwane City has also made the list as well as Riaan Hanamub of AmaZulu. Another player that was linked with the club is now Mamelodi Sundowns attacking midfielder Tashreeq Matthews. In the goal keeping department, they have also been heavily linked to Nigerian international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili.
Additionally, the likes of Sage Stephens and Siphesihle Mkhize have also recently made the Chiefs list. But with what team manager Bobby Motaung has said, it seems like none will be joining in January. But that does not mean they won’t be working on a deal to sign one or two of those players right now.
JOHNSON REJECTED OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE SIGNINGS
This publication reported in January that Johnson was given a ‘blank cheque’ by Chiefs for January window. It was then the veteran coach’s idea not to use it, showing faith in his current squad. Things have since gone down hill for the club, however, winning just one game all 2024. That has prompted fans to rue the missed chance in the window.
What should pain Chiefs fans even more is news of them rejecting Botswana international Tumisang Orebonye. According to Soccer-Laduma, CAF Confederation Cup winner was offered to the club on a platter. He was also ready and willing to join.
CHIEFS REJECTED OREBONYE IN THE PROCESS?
“The Siya Crew was recently informed that Chiefs were sounded out about the player (Orebonye) and his availability. And the Crew was informed that the player was actually excited about the prospect of relocating from North Africa and would have been nearer his home country.However, when there was no approach and the deadline for registration also closely approaching, he was instead invited to Morocco by none other than Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi to join him at AS FAR Rabat FC.” Wrote the publication.
To rub salt into the wounds of Chiefs fans, Orebonye scored on his Rabat debut. He has also been doing so regularly since. Ironically, Amakhosi’s struggles in front of the net have continued.
