Glody Lilepo: Kaizer Chiefs star’s shock R17m switch to Libya sparks questions from club legend

Kaizer Chiefs winger Glody Lilepo is on the brink of a surprise move to Libyan side Al Ahly Benghazi in a deal worth more than R17m – a transfer that has left a club icon openly questioning why Amakhosi are letting him go.

The 28-year-old attacker, who has been one of Chiefs’ most effective forwards since arriving in Naturena, is expected to depart after just a season and a half with the Soweto club.

According to sources close to the negotiations, Chiefs have agreed a transfer fee in excess of R17m with Al Ahly Benghazi, and Lilepo has already settled personal terms. A routine medical is understood to be the final step before he signs for the Libyan club.

‘Who could release this kind of player?’ – Khumalo

Lilepo’s impending exit has drawn a strong reaction from Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana legend Doctor Khumalo, who expressed his disbelief during an appearance on SoccerZone.

“If he wants to leave then probably he [Lilepo] is seeing greener pastures when he goes to Al Ahli [Benghazi], and for them (Kaizer Chiefs) to have released him, probably there are internal problems that me and you do not know about,” Khumalo argued.

“Who could release this kind of player because he delivered at Kaizer Chiefs, and I thought he was going to be one of the lethal players for this season [2026-27] based on the players they have signed,” said the Chiefs legend.

Khumalo stressed that losing a versatile forward of Lilepo’s profile – comfortable both on the wing and as a central striker – is bound to raise concerns among supporters and observers.

“Khumalo adds that when a team loses this kind of wing player who also plays as a striker, it raises eyebrows.

“But having said that, I wish him all the best of luck; he delivered.”

Key figure in attack

Lilepo has grown into a central attacking figure for Chiefs, contributing nine goals in 33 appearances in all competitions. His pace, physical presence and ability to operate across the front line made him a regular selection and a notable threat in the final third.

His form had prompted expectations that he would be one of the focal points of Amakhosi’s attack in the 2026-27 campaign, particularly in light of the club’s recent recruitment drive. Instead, his looming departure leaves a significant gap in the squad shortly before the new season begins.

The reasons behind Chiefs’ willingness to sanction the transfer have not been officially disclosed, but Khumalo’s comments about potential “internal problems” are likely to fuel speculation among fans.

Chiefs return from Spain as season nears

While Lilepo’s move edges closer, Kaizer Chiefs have returned to South Africa following their pre-season training camp in Spain, where they continued preparations under their revamped technical team.

The Soweto giants will open their Betway Premiership season on 1 August against newly promoted Kruger United, a fixture that will now take place under the shadow of Lilepo’s expected exit.

With the new campaign just days away, attention will turn to how Chiefs plan to replace one of their most productive attackers – and whether the club will move swiftly in the transfer market to soften the blow of his sudden departure.