Kaizer Chiefs set sights on Malawian midfielder

Published on by Nkosiyabuya Sithole

With the club aiming for a stronger showing in the next season, Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly added a Malawian international to their transfer targets.

Amakhosi extended their trophy drought to nine seasons after they finished recently-ended campaign without hoisting a silverware. 

After sacking head coach Molefi Ntseki last year, they appointed Cavin Johnson on an interim basis. The club is currently searching for a permanent manager who can restore glory to Naturena.

While Chiefs have been linked with several coaches, both domestically and internationally, they have also been scouting for players in the DStv Premiership and abroad.

KAIZER CHIEFS EYEING MALAWIAN MIDFIELDER?

According to Soccer Laduma, Chiefs have been sniffing around the Malawian midfielder Chawanangwa Kaonga who currently plies his trade at Zanaco FC, competing in Zambian Super League.

Kaonga began his professional career in his country, playing for Silver Strikers. He then went on to have stints with Chibuto and CD Costa do Sol in Mozambique.

South African football fans may recognise him from his time with TS Sporting in the second tier between 2020 and 2021.

In 2021, he returned to where it all started – Silver Strikers in Malawi prior to joining his current team Zanaco at the beginning of last year.

Kaonga impressed as a key player for the Malawian national team, finishing fourth at the 2023 Hollywoodbets COSAFA Cup in Durban. He even earned Player of the Tournament honours and a spot in the Best XI.

While his main position is attacking midfielder, he can also be played as a second striker.

This Chiefs move signals the Soweto giants' intent to strengthen their attacking midfield, a department that has faced criticism.

Before injuries hampered him, Keagan Dolly was the leading figure in the attacking midfield role. The club has also, at times, utilised Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, who hasn't quite found his footing yet.

Chiefs also have Mduduzi Mdantsane, Lehlogonolo Matlou and Sabelo Radebe who can also play the position. The trio has been struggling with injuries this campaign.

KAONGA TO COME IN AS DOLLY’S REPLACEMENT?

Meanwhile, the future of Dolly still remains uncertain with his contract expiring at the end of June.

According to the reports, the club offered Dolly a new contract with reduced terms due to his lack of recent activity and inconsistent performances. However, it appears the two parties have yet to reach an agreement.

If Dolly departs, Kaonga would have to come in carrying the hopes of a rejuvenated Amakhosi team on his shoulders next season.

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Nkosiyabuya Sithole

Nkosiyabuya Sithole, a young and rising sports journalist based in Durban, South Africa, harbors a deep passion for football. Nevertheless, he aspires to become a well-rounded journalist, adept in various areas of the field.

Nkosi's career began in 2020, working as a home-based writer during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has since written for various websites, including Briefly News, FiND-iT News, and The South African. Attending live sporting events is a particular pleasure for him, as they provide opportunities for interaction with sports personalities.

Outside of the office, he's a God-fearing and affable young man.