By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has confirmed that midfielder Thabo Cele is not part of his plans ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Da Cruz told the media on Friday at the Chiefs Village.
He said, they have a lot of players in Cele’s position. I prefer other profiles and for the moment he’s not on my plans.”
Cele joined Chiefs in January 2025 on a three-and-a-half-year deal from Russian club Fakel Voronezh.
Chiefs are exploring alternatives, including a potential loan move or permanent transfer, although any deal would need to satisfy all parties before it can be concluded.
For now, Cele’s future remains unresolved, with further discussions expected as the transfer window progresses.
Da Cruz has also provided an update on winger Glody Lilepo.
Lilepo arrived at Chiefs in January 2025 from France Ligue 1 side Valenciennes FC on an undisclosed transfer fee.
The 28-year-old immediately had a positive impact upon his arrival at Chiefs by scoring four goals and laying one assist, aiding his side to end the 10-year trophy drought.
“Lilepo he has other opportunities elsewhere,” Da Cruz told the media.
He said the club is targeting four key signings to strengthen the squad.
“There are four positions offensively: a striker, new wingers and an attacking midfielder, “Da Cruz said, putting pressure on the club’s management to deliver those players.
“We have good profiles, but we asked management to get different profiles so that we can play different football and be less predictable.”
Chiefs are facing the reigning Zimbabwean champions, Scottland, at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg, North West on Sunday, 26 July 2026.