Khanyisa Mayo’s Kaizer Chiefs stay confirmed as he welcomes Da Cruz

Kaizer Chiefs have all but confirmed the permanent capture of striker Khanyisa Mayo following reports that they had reached a deal with Algerian side CR Belouizdad.

Chiefs had signed Mayo on a season-long loan deal from Algerian club last September but after a poor season, the former Cape Town City forward’s future at Naturena was uncertain.

However, multiple reports on Wednesday stated that Chiefs have finalised the permanent signing of striker Mayo after paying a multi-million transfer fee to secure the forward’s services.

Accidental confirmation of Mayo’s signing?

The striker’s stay at Chiefs was somewhat confirmed on Thursday when he was captured on camera among the squad as they welcomed new coach Fernando da Cruz. Given his previous deal ended on June 30, the fact that he is part of the squad now preparing for pre-season all but confirms his stay at Naturena.

Coach Fernando da Cruz is now fully in the building, stepping into his role with clear intent, strong leadership, and a shared belief in what this team can become.

With the full technical team in place, the focus is clear. Every drill matters. Every detail counts. Every day is a… pic.twitter.com/fjj43n7VCD

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 2, 2026

Mayo’s first season with the Amakhosi was hampered by injuries, denying him an opportunity to display his goal-scoring prowess. The 27-year-old featured in just over 600 minutes of play across 15 appearances, scoring two goals.

Chiefs striker looking to impress Da Cruz

He made seven starts and was frequently used as an impact substitute by former co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Ben Khalil Youssef.

With a new technical team led by head coach Da Cruz now in place, Mayo will be looking to cement a regular starting position.

Mayo is no stranger to the South African top flight, having previously won the Golden Boot in the 2022/23 season with 12 goals for Cape Town City, followed by a 10-goal campaign the next year which attracted the interest of Belouizdad.

Throughout his career in the Premier Soccer League, Mayo has scored 28 goals in 88 appearances.