Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly closing in on a significant new signing as French-based attacker Makabi Lilepo has agreed to personal terms with the Soweto giants. The Congolese striker, who currently plays for Valenciennes FC in France, is expected to join Chiefs in January 2025 for a reported transfer fee of around R10 million. This move would mark a key addition to the Amakhosi squad as they look to strengthen their attacking options for the second half of the season.
Lilepo, 25, has spent the past two seasons playing in France, where he has shown glimpses of his potential, scoring six goals in his time at Valenciennes. While not an explosive record, his physicality, pace, and versatility in the attacking third have caught the attention of Chiefs’ management. His arrival would provide added depth in the forward line, especially as the club looks to build a more competitive side for the remainder of the 2024/25 season. Lilepo is expected to bring a fresh attacking dimension to Kaizer Chiefs, with his direct playing style and ability to operate across various attacking positions, whether as a central striker or a winger.
The deal for Lilepo comes shortly after Chiefs secured the signing of SuperSport United star Tashreeq Morris, another player who is expected to bolster the attack. The 25-year-old Morris was brought in as a key addition during the same January transfer window, with Chiefs fans hopeful that the combination of these two new arrivals will provide the club with much-needed firepower to challenge for silverware in the second half of the season. The move also marks an exciting new chapter in Chiefs’ ongoing rebuilding process under head coach Molefi Ntseki, as he looks to revitalise the squad after a somewhat inconsistent first half of the 2024/25 campaign.
Lilepo’s signing is particularly significant because he is the second Congolese striker linked to Chiefs in recent months. The club had previously shown interest in another Congolese forward, Fiston Mayele, who plays for Tanzanian side Yanga SC. Mayele, valued at an estimated R20 million, is a more expensive option but has impressed in continental competitions with his strong goal-scoring record. Chiefs’ interest in Lilepo suggests that they are keen to tap into the potential of Congolese footballers, who have been making waves in African football with their athleticism, technical skill, and goalscoring ability.
Chiefs’ fanbase has been quick to react to the news of Lilepo’s potential signing, with many supporters expressing excitement and optimism about what the player can bring to the team. On social media, fans welcomed the news with enthusiasm, with some praising the club for adding fresh attacking talent. Lilepo’s move to Mzansi has created a buzz, with many supporters hopeful that his skills will complement those of established players like Khama Billiat and Ashley du Preez, adding more depth and quality to the attacking options available to Ntseki.
However, while many Chiefs fans are excited about the new arrivals, there is also a segment of supporters who feel that the club needs to make further signings before the close of the January transfer window. Some fans have voiced concerns that the team still lacks sufficient depth in key areas and have urged management to continue working on reinforcing other parts of the squad, particularly the midfield and defense. The frustration among some supporters is understandable, as Chiefs have been inconsistent in recent seasons, and there is a sense of urgency to strengthen the squad if they are to challenge for major titles this year.
Kaizer Chiefs have always been a club with lofty expectations, and with the club’s massive fanbase behind them, there is a sense of pressure to perform. The arrival of Lilepo and Morris, however, has certainly given the fans hope that the team is on the right track, and the additions could prove to be crucial in the long run. With Amakhosi currently sitting in a competitive position in the league, the performances of these new signings will be critical in determining the club’s success in the second half of the season.
Lilepo’s move to Kaizer Chiefs is not just a transfer for a talented player; it also represents the club’s ambition to re-establish itself as one of the dominant forces in South African football. In recent seasons, Chiefs have faced increased competition from clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and SuperSport United, but this influx of attacking talent could give the team the edge it needs to challenge for top honors once again. With a blend of experienced players and exciting new signings, the Amakhosi faithful are eager to see how the team shapes up under the guidance of Ntseki.
As Lilepo prepares to make the move to South Africa, all eyes will be on his progress, with Chiefs supporters hoping that the Congolese forward can live up to the expectations set by his fatherland’s footballing legacy. His performances in France have shown promise, and now, in the spotlight of the PSL, he will have the opportunity to prove himself on a bigger stage. As the January transfer window closes, Chiefs fans will be watching closely to see if their club’s rebuilding process will continue with further signings or if they will be content with the additions already made.
One thing is certain: with the arrival of Makabi Lilepo and Tashreeq Morris, Kaizer Chiefs have certainly made a statement in the transfer market, and the 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting one for the club. The pressure is now on the new signings to deliver the goods and help Kaizer Chiefs return to the top of South African football.
