Three Bafana Bafana stars Kaizer Chiefs could unleash as transfer window enters crucial stage

Kaizer Chiefs have entered the final stretch of their pre-season preparations without making the big transfer statements many supporters expected, but the Soweto giants still have an opportunity to strengthen their squad before the 2026/27 campaign begins.

Since the transfer window opened on 1 July, Chiefs have made only a handful of additions, bringing in Renaldo Leaner and Thabo Moloisane, while Khanyisa Mayo has completed a permanent switch to Naturena.

With the new season just two weeks away, coach Fernando Da Cruz and the Chiefs technical team remain under pressure to add more quality, especially with the club preparing for a demanding domestic campaign and a return to continental football through the CAF Confederation Cup.

The market still offers several proven Bafana Bafana internationals who could provide the experience and quality needed to improve the squad.

Percy Tau offers experience and attacking quality

One name that could appeal to Amakhosi is Percy Tau, who is currently available after ending his spell with Vietnamese club Dong A Thanh Hoa.

The former Al Ahly forward remains one of South Africa’s most decorated modern attackers and would bring a wealth of international experience to Chiefs’ frontline.

Tau’s ability to operate across the attacking line, create chances and deliver in high-pressure matches makes him an attractive option for a club looking to compete on multiple fronts.

Having played regularly in CAF competitions and featured at the highest level with clubs in Africa and Europe, the 31-year-old could provide valuable leadership to a relatively young Chiefs squad.

His arrival would also add creativity and attacking intelligence to a team looking to rediscover its winning identity.

Mabasa could solve Chiefs’ goalscoring problem

Another player linked with a possible move to Naturena is Tshegofatso Mabasa, who became a free agent after leaving Orlando Pirates in June.

The 29-year-old striker has established himself as one of the most reliable goalscorers in South African football and could offer Chiefs the attacking presence they have lacked in recent seasons.

Mabasa’s physical strength, penalty-box movement and finishing ability would give Da Cruz another option in attack as the club searches for consistency in front of goal.

His experience in the Premier Soccer League, combined with his understanding of the demands of South African football, could make him a valuable addition.

A move to Chiefs could also provide Mabasa with the platform to revive his Bafana Bafana ambitions after previously featuring for the national team.

Sithole could add steel to midfield

Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole is another Bafana Bafana player who could interest Chiefs if an opportunity emerges.

The midfielder remains contracted to Portuguese side Tondela but has previously suggested that he would consider a return to South Africa.

Sithole has also spoken positively about Kaizer Chiefs, fuelling speculation that Naturena could be a potential destination should he decide to come home.

Known for his energy, discipline and ability to control the midfield, the 26-year-old would bring a different dimension to Chiefs’ engine room.

His experience playing in Europe and with the national team could provide valuable balance as the club aims to build a squad capable of challenging for trophies.

With time still remaining before the transfer window closes, Chiefs have the chance to make decisive moves. Adding one of these experienced Bafana stars could significantly strengthen Da Cruz’s options ahead of a crucial season.