Kaizer Chiefs rule out move for former Orlando Pirates midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch

Kaizer Chiefs have no plans to sign Thembinkosi Lorch, despite widespread speculation linking the former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns attacking midfielder with a move to the Soweto club.

Reports on social media gathered momentum after the 33-year-old was seen around the Kaizer Chiefs set-up at FNB Stadium. His appearance prompted debate among supporters and fuelled hopes that he could make a sensational switch to Amakhosi.

However, a source close to the Naturena-based club has told this publication that Lorch’s arrival was never under consideration and will not happen.

“No [Lorch is not joining Chiefs], nothing like that from what I know. It might have started on social media,” the insider said.

The former PSL Footballer of the Season was in South Africa briefly but has since returned to North Africa. Lorch has rejoined his parent club, Al Ittihad Tripoli, and is back in training with the Libyan side.

His return follows the collapse of a proposed move to Moroccan champions MAS Fes.

Chiefs continue work on squad

With the speculation over Lorch dismissed, Kaizer Chiefs remain active in the transfer market as head coach Fernando Da Cruz seeks to add experienced quality and leadership to a youthful squad.

The club still has a limited period in which to complete its recruitment, with the South African domestic transfer window scheduled to close on 22 September.

Chiefs have made a positive start to the 2026/27 campaign, winning two and drawing one of their opening three matches. Their only setback so far came in a surprise first-round exit from the MTN8.

The club has also strengthened its squad with promising young additions. Kaizer Chiefs secured the signatures of Langelihle Phili and Fiaz Abrahams from Stellenbosch, adding two highly rated prospects to their group.

While Lorch’s presence around FNB Stadium created excitement among supporters, there is no indication that the player is being considered as part of Da Cruz’s plans. Instead, he is back with Al Ittihad Tripoli after the unsuccessful move to MAS Fes, while Chiefs continue to assess other options before the transfer deadline.