Kaizer Chiefs keep Ayabulela Maxwele option open as attack search continues

Kaizer Chiefs have not completely abandoned their interest in Golden Arrows attacker Ayabulela Maxwele as coach Fernando Da Cruz continues to seek attacking reinforcements before the transfer window closes.

Earlier reports in local media suggested that Chiefs had developed a strong interest in the promising forward, with Golden Arrows believed to have been aware of the Glamour Boys’ pursuit. However, no transfer has taken place so far.

Maxwele remains part of the plans at Abafana Bes’thende for now. He featured in Golden Arrows’ opening Betway Premiership match of the season, a goalless draw against Chippa United at the weekend.

Although talk of a possible move has quietened in recent weeks, the Siya crew understands that Chiefs could still return to the situation. The Soweto club are continuing to assess their options in the transfer market, and a move for Maxwele cannot yet be ruled out.

Da Cruz has already identified strengthening the attack as one of his priorities since taking charge at Chiefs. Before the beginning of the new season, the French coach told the club’s management that he wanted four additions in attacking positions.

His requested reinforcements included a striker, two wingers and an attacking midfielder. The aim is to provide Chiefs with more variety in the final third and prevent the team from becoming predictable in attack.

Chiefs have since added winger Langelihle Phili to their squad after signing him from Stellenbosch FC. His arrival followed the earlier recruitment of defensive midfielder Adolf Bitegeko, defender Thabo Moloisane and goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner.

However, Phili is the only one of those four signings who operates in an attacking role. With Da Cruz having specifically called for additions across several forward positions, Chiefs may still have scope to bring in more players before the transfer window shuts.

That leaves open the possibility of renewed interest in Maxwele, although there is no indication at this stage that a deal is close. The attacker’s continued involvement with Golden Arrows suggests that he remains available to Abafana Bes’thende while the situation develops.

For Chiefs, the immediate focus is on finding greater firepower and more attacking variety. Whether that search ultimately leads them back to Maxwele remains uncertain, but their recruitment work in the final third appears to be ongoing.

The reported interest first emerged before the new season, when Chiefs were said to be monitoring the Golden Arrows player closely. Despite the lack of movement since then, the club’s need for further attacking options means the possibility of a late approach remains alive.