Kaizer Chiefs receive big boost in pursuit of Stellies forward

Kaizer Chiefs may have found an unexpected advantage in their bid to sign highly-rated Stellenbosch FC forward Langelihle Phili, according to recent reports.

Amakhosi have identified Phili as a key target following his exceptional breakout season, where he dominated the Stellies’ end-of-season awards ceremony. The 21-year-old sensation took home four major accolades: Players’ Player of the Season, Young Player of the Season, the Golden Boot, and the Rama Fans’ Player of the Season, after netting nine goals across all competitions.

Phili’s remarkable form has not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from multiple clubs, including Libyan powerhouse Al-Ittihad, managed by Rulani Mokwena.

Kaizer Chiefs’ unexpected advantage

Chiefs are reportedly eager to bolster their left wing, as they consider Congolese winger Glody Makabi Lilepo more effective on the right flank. Phili’s versatility, strong work ethic, and goal-scoring ability make him a prime candidate as the club prepares for a new chapter under an incoming coaching staff.

However, securing the former AmaZulu FC reserve player from Stellenbosch was never going to be simple. In a surprising twist, Stellenbosch have reportedly reached out to Chiefs to inquire about re-signing their former star, Ashley Du Preez. Stellies’ veteran coach, Gavin Hunt, is said to be a keen admirer of the forward.

This development could open the door for the Soweto giants to propose a player-plus-cash deal involving Du Preez to facilitate Phili’s move as per FARPost.

Du Preez could make return to Stellies

Du Preez experienced the most successful period of his career in the Cape Winelands before his high-profile, R10 million transfer to Naturena in 2022, where he had scored 13 goals and provided eight assists in 69 matches for Stellenbosch.

His tenure at Chiefs has been a mixed bag. In four seasons, the 28-year-old has recorded 19 goals and nine assists in 96 appearances. His progress has been frequently disrupted by injuries and inconsistent form. Last season, he was largely on the periphery, making just 12 appearances with no goals and a single assist.

While Du Preez is reportedly keen to prove his worth to the new technical team in the final year of his contract, Stellenbosch’s interest provides Chiefs with a valuable bargaining chip in their pursuit of Phili.