Kaizer Chiefs Transfer News: Latest on Thabo Cele after Da Cruz’s snub

New Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz publicly stated he was not keen to work with Thabo Cele since the midfielder was not in his plans.

It was a rude awakening for the 29-year-old, who joined the Soweto giants in 2025 from Russian outfit Fakel Voronezh. He has since made 36 appearances for the Glamour Boys across all competitions.

Cele was sparingly used by co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze last season. The midfielder must have thought that the arrival of the new technical team would change his fortunes, only for him to be deemed surplus to requirements.

Furthermore, Cele wasn’t part of the squad in Spain for pre-season, as management gave him a window to look for a new team and make either a permanent or a loan move.

What is the latest on Cele?

“There are currently no official bids for the KwaMashu-born star’s services, though his handlers have been given the leeway to look for opportunities and have been using the time to find the right move for the diminutive midfielder,” KickOff reported.

“It is understood that Cele’s camp would not necessarily jump at any offer for the 29-year-old, who is on a bumper contract at Naturena, and it would take an attractive option to lure him away from Amakhosi, even though he is not part of Da Cruz’s plans,” they concluded.

Chiefs have since signed Thabo Moloisane(Stellenbosch), Renaldo Leaner, Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko (Azam FC) and Langelihle Phili (Stellenbosch FC).

Last weekend, they started their 2026/27 Premier Soccer League campaign with a 3-1 win away to Kruger United. The next outing will be in the MTN8 quarter-final against Golden Arrows on Sunday at the FNB Stadium.