Done Deal: Kaizer Chiefs finally land main transfer target

Kaizer Chiefs have finalised the signing of highly-rated winger Langelihle Phili from Stellenbosch FC, securing the 21-year-old on a long-term contract.

According to FARPost, the transfer agreement has been signed by both clubs, with the player also putting pen to paper.

An official announcement is expected in the coming days, concluding a week of intense negotiations. Chiefs successfully landed the South African youth international after Stellenbosch initially showed reluctance to sell one of their most promising talents.

As part of the deal, defender Given Msimango and forward Ashley du Preez will move to Stellenbosch on permanent transfers. Phili’s arrival coincides with the impending departure of Congolese attacker Glody Lilepo from Chiefs.

Chiefs offer two players to complete deal

The young winger’s impressive breakthrough season had attracted interest from several clubs, but Amakhosi emerged as the frontrunners and have now secured his signature.

The transfer gained momentum recently, with a clear sign of progress on Thursday when Phili was held out of Stellenbosch’s training session despite being present with the squad.

For Stellenbosch, the loss of Phili is offset by the acquisition of two experienced Premiership players. Du Preez makes a return to the club where he previously flourished before his 2022 move to Chiefs, while Msimango will add valuable quality and depth to Gavin Hunt’s defensive line.

With Lilepo set to leave, Phili was identified as the ideal replacement to bolster the Amakhosi attack. Newly appointed coach Fernando da Cruz recently highlighted strengthening the team’s wide areas as a top priority for the club.

What can Amakhosi expect from Phili?

Phili, a former AmaZulu FC reserve player, signed his first professional contract with Stellenbosch in 2024 on a three-year deal. He enjoyed a rapid rise through the club’s youth system, contributing to victories in the Engen Knockout Challenge, Engen Champ of Champs, DStv Diski Challenge, and the Premier League Next Generation Cup.

His strong performances earned him a call-up to the South Africa Under-20 squad before he made his senior debut against Richards Bay FC on the final day of the 2023/24 season. He made an immediate impact, scoring on his first senior start in a 5-0 CAF Confederation Cup win over Nsingizini Hotspurs.

Phili has since made 72 appearances in all competitions, with his most productive season being 2025/26, where he scored nine goals and provided one assist in 39 matches.

The talented winger is Chiefs’ fourth signing of the current transfer window, joining goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, defender Thabo Moloisane, and Tanzanian midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa.