Kaizer Chiefs transfer boost? Amakhosi-linked forward becomes free agent

South African clubs have been put on alert after Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana became available on the market following a parting of ways with Tunisian giants Esperance.

Mokwana officially terminated his contract with Tunisian powerhouse on Saturday, bringing his time with the club to an immediate end.

Elias Mokwana has left Esperance. — Elias Mokwana at Esperance. Image: Esperance

The 27-year-old made the move to Tunisia from Sekhukhune United in 2024 in a transfer reportedly valued at R7 million. During his debut season, he made a significant impact, scoring seven goals and providing four assists in 38 appearances.

Why Esperance terminated Mokwana’s deal

Following his initial success, Mokwana was sent on loan to Al Hazem in the Saudi Pro League. However, the Saudi club opted not to make the deal permanent. Upon his return to Esperance, he found himself in a challenging situation as the club had already filled its foreign player quota for the 2026/27 season, which is already underway.

Kaizer Chiefs are on alert after Elias Mokwana left Esperance. — Elias Mokwana celebrates a goal for Esperance.

According to iDiski Times, the contract termination was an amicable agreement between the player and the club, resolving the registration issue that left him unable to play.

That opens the doors for South African clubs, who are likely to face competition from sides from North Africa and the Gulf for the winger.

Kaizer Chiefs and other clubs on alert

Kaizer Chiefs are among clubs who have been credited with an interest before and the door could now be open for the Glamour Boys to snap him up now that he is available for free.

Chiefs have exploited the free agent market in recent years, singing to players without the extra burden of paying transfer fees and Mokwana is another attractive prospect that could beef up the attack for coach Fernando da Cruz given his quality and experience.

Mokwana is expected to carefully evaluate his options before making a decision, as he aims to secure regular playing time and earn a recall to the Bafana Bafana squad after being overlooked for the 2026 World Cup as well as the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.