Real Native keep talks open over Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Bontle Molefe loan

Real Native FC have confirmed they held negotiations with Kaizer Chiefs over a possible loan move for goalkeeper Bontle Molefe, although the deal is not yet close to completion.

Molefe spent the second half of last season on loan at Leicesterford City in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. Real Native, formerly known as Casric Stars, have emerged as one of the clubs interested in signing him temporarily, while newly promoted Championship side Hope FC are also believed to be considering a loan move for the goalkeeper.

Kaizer Chiefs currently have Brandon Petersen, Renaldo Leaner and Bruce Bvuma competing for places in their first-team squad. That competition means Molefe is expected to leave the club on loan this season, with Real Native still among his possible destinations.

Mthombeni confirmed that discussions had taken place but said the club was assessing its options before making a commitment.

“I think the negotiations were on, but I think we needed to look at what have and see if we can balance. We’ve got a good relationship with Betway teams and I cannot wait to have him, as long as we can afford it because I really like him. It’s just that now it’s pending because we’ve got quite a number of youngsters that we want to look at, but for now there is nothing concrete,” Mthombeni said to Soccer Laduma.

Real Native unveiled 16 new signings at an event in Pretoria on Friday evening, including several players arriving on loan.

Lungelo Dondolo was presented after joining from Orlando Pirates, while Kaizer Chiefs duo Vicky Mkhawana and Ofente Kgosana were also unveiled as Real Native players on temporary agreements.

The club have added experience to their squad as well, with Xolani Slawula and Menzi Ndwandwe among the more established players to join during the current transfer window.

Despite the size of the recruitment drive, Mthombeni said Real Native were not ruling out further additions before the window closes. He stressed that the club would remain open to opportunities, even after bringing in 16 players.

“I’ve learnt that in football you cannot close the door. What if you close the door and then Mbappe, Messi, Cristiano or Yamal come and say they are available, or even Mbokazi. As a football club, you will always open the door.

The comments leave the possibility of a late move for Molefe open, although Real Native are also taking time to assess their younger goalkeeping options. No agreement has been confirmed between the two clubs.

Real Native’s interest was first reported by Soccer Laduma after Molefe’s loan spell at Leicesterford City. The goalkeeper’s next destination will depend on whether the Pretoria-based club decides to proceed with the proposal or whether Hope FC make a formal approach.

For now, Kaizer Chiefs retain Molefe while Real Native continue to review their squad following the unveiling of their new arrivals.