Kaizer Chiefs weigh Ashley du Preez sale as Langelihle Phili emerges as key transfer target

Kaizer Chiefs are weighing up the sale of forward Ashley du Preez in a move that could pave the way for a major attacking reshuffle, with Stellenbosch FC winger Langelihle Phili identified as a prime transfer target.

The Soweto giants are understood to be exploring a player-plus-cash deal to secure Phili, 21, as part of their broader squad rebuild ahead of the new Premier Soccer League (PSL) season.

Du Preez, whose pace has been a key feature of Chiefs’ attack, is being considered as a potential makeweight in negotiations as the club seeks fresh impetus in wide areas.

Phili high on Chiefs’ wishlist

Several local reports indicate that Phili remains near the top of Kaizer Chiefs’ transfer shortlist after an impressive campaign in the Cape Winelands.

The diminutive but dynamic winger scored seven goals in 27 league appearances last season for Stellenbosch, underlining his threat in the final third and his growing reputation in the PSL.

Chiefs are understood to believe that Phili’s profile – quick, direct and still developing – fits the club’s medium-term plans, with the club keen to lower the average age of the squad while adding more productivity from wide positions.

Should a deal be concluded, the move would see Phili join the Glamour Boys at Naturena, potentially at the expense of Du Preez, whose own future has come under increasing scrutiny.

Lilepo future in doubt as attacking options reshaped

The possible exit of Ashley du Preez is not the only attacking change being considered.

Congolese wide attacker Glody Lilepo is also believed to be among the players who could depart, despite a respectable contribution last season. The 24-year-old registered five goals and four assists in 27 league matches, predominantly from wide attacking positions.

Lilepo joined Chiefs from French side Valenciennes in January 2025, but with the club set to adjust its attacking structure – and with financial flexibility a factor – his sale is being discussed as a realistic option.

Any departure could increase the pressure on striker Flavio Silva to shoulder an even greater share of the goal-scoring burden, especially if multiple wide forwards are moved on without like-for-like replacements of similar experience.

Khanyisa Mayo expected to sign permanently

Adding another layer to the attacking puzzle, Khanyisa Mayo is widely expected to complete a permanent move to Naturena following a loan spell.

The forward’s anticipated long-term deal with Chiefs would further crowd the attacking positions and is one of the reasons Lilepo may be allowed to leave.

Mayo, who has been on the radar of several top-flight clubs in recent seasons, is seen as a player capable of operating across the front line and offering versatility in various systems.

Injury setback for Mako as new season nears

While much of the focus is on transfer dealings, Chiefs have also been dealt a defensive blow just weeks before the new campaign.

Left-back Paseka Mako will miss the start of the season after suffering a fractured arm during a pre-season friendly in Spain. The injury is a setback for the player and coaching staff, with Mako having been expected to play a prominent role on the left side of defence.

Khanyisa Mayo is also nursing a minor knock, although the club does not consider the issue to be serious. Aside from those concerns, Chiefs are believed to be working with an almost clean bill of health as preparations intensify.

With key transfer decisions looming – notably around Du Preez, Lilepo and the pursuit of Phili – the coming weeks are likely to prove decisive in shaping Kaizer Chiefs’ prospects for the upcoming PSL season.