Kaizer Chiefs sign Tanzanian midfielder Adolf Bitegeko in third deal of transfer window

Kaizer Chiefs have made Tanzanian midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko their third signing of the transfer window, in a move expected to reshape the club’s midfield ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The 27-year-old joins from Azam FC in his homeland and becomes the first Tanzanian footballer to sign for the Soweto giants.

Chiefs view the highly rated central midfielder as a potential replacement for Thabo Cele, who is widely expected to leave the club after being omitted from their recent pre-season tour of Spain.

Bitegeko is capable of operating both as a number six and a number eight, giving Amakhosi additional tactical flexibility in the centre of the pitch.

The deal continues a busy window for Chiefs, who have already brought in goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner and centre-back Thabo Moloisane.

Foreign slot opened as Chiefs reshape squad

Chiefs have been actively adjusting their foreign-player quota to make room for new arrivals.

Goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari has been sent on loan to newly promoted Mpumalanga side Kruger United, freeing up one of the club’s foreign-player slots.

At the same time, Congolese winger Glody Lilepo is expected to depart, with talks at an advanced stage over a move to Libyan outfit Al Ahli Benghazi in the coming days.

The decisions point to a broader restructuring of the squad as Chiefs attempt to rebuild after several underwhelming domestic campaigns.

Pre-season tour completed in Spain

Amakhosi returned to South Africa on Monday following their pre-season tour of Spain, a trip seen as an important part of their preparations for the upcoming campaign.

Cele’s absence from the touring group has intensified speculation over his future at the club, making Bitegeko’s arrival particularly significant.

The Tanzanian midfielder is anticipated to compete for a starting role in the heart of the side’s engine room, where his ability to break up play and contribute to building attacks is likely to be closely scrutinised.

First Tanzanian to wear Amakhosi colours

Bitegeko’s signing is historic for Kaizer Chiefs, as he becomes the first player from Tanzania to be registered by the club.

He joins from Azam FC, where he has captained the team, underlining his leadership credentials and experience at a high level in East African football.

Before returning to Azam, Bitegeko had a spell in Europe, featuring in Iceland for clubs including KR Reykjavik and Volsungur IF.

His exposure to both African and European football is expected to be an asset as Chiefs look to add resilience and creativity to their midfield.

Third reinforcement signals new direction

With Leaner strengthening the goalkeeping department and Moloisane reinforcing the defence, the acquisition of Bitegeko addresses a key area in midfield for Chiefs ahead of the 2026-27 term.

The combination of incoming signings and outgoing players suggests a clear intent from the club’s hierarchy to refresh the squad and improve competitiveness domestically and potentially in continental competition.

As the transfer window continues, further changes to the Chiefs squad cannot be ruled out, but the arrival of Adolf Bitegeko marks a notable milestone in the club’s evolving recruitment strategy.