Kaizer Chiefs may listen to offers for Thabo Cele as midfielder’s future remains uncertain

Thabo Cele’s future at Kaizer Chiefs is under increasing doubt, with the club understood to be willing to consider offers for the midfielder if interested parties come forward.

The 29-year-old has moved to the fringes of the first team since the appointment of head coach Fernando da Cruz. The Frenchman has publicly indicated that the KwaMashu-born player does not form part of his plans for the current season.

Cele’s situation was highlighted further when he was not included in the Kaizer Chiefs squad that travelled to Spain for their pre-season preparations. His absence has increased speculation that his time with the Soweto club could be approaching an end.

Although Cele remains under contract at Naturena, the Siya crew understands that Kaizer Chiefs may be prepared to listen to proposals for the former Radomiak Radom player.

There is no indication at this stage that a formal offer has been made. It is also unclear whether any club has taken concrete steps to secure Cele’s services, leaving his next move uncertain as the transfer window remains open.

The midfielder’s contractual position creates a difficult decision for both player and club. Cele still has an agreement with Kaizer Chiefs, meaning his future cannot simply be resolved by his exclusion from Da Cruz’s plans.

The player’s representatives are believed to have considered possible options for his next step. At the same time, Kaizer Chiefs would have to assess the financial consequences of ending the arrangement before the contract expires.

That could make a transfer a more practical outcome for all concerned, provided an offer arrives that satisfies the club and gives Cele the opportunity to continue his career elsewhere.

For now, Cele remains linked to the Glamour Boys despite appearing to be outside the head coach’s plans. The club therefore faces a choice between retaining a contracted player who is not currently central to the manager’s thinking or considering a deal if another team makes a suitable approach.

Cele’s immediate future is consequently still in limbo. While he remains a Kaizer Chiefs player, the circumstances around his role suggest that a move away from Naturena could become possible before the transfer window closes.

Whether that opportunity materialises will depend on the arrival of an interested club and the terms of any proposed agreement. Until then, Cele remains tied to Kaizer Chiefs but with his position within Da Cruz’s squad increasingly uncertain.