Kaizer Chiefs are on the verge of securing the signatures of two exciting new strikers, with the first being Makabi Glody Lilepo, a 27-year-old Congolese forward. Lilepo is known for his versatility, with a preference for operating in the wide right position. During his time under legendary coach Florent Ibenge, Lilepo impressed in the CAF Champions League, scoring five goals in just 10 appearances. However, his move to France’s Ligue 1 didn’t go as planned, as he faced relegation in his debut season there.
Lilepo currently plays for Valenciennes in France, and the club is reportedly open to selling him for around €500,000 (approximately R9.6 million). Over 46 games for the club, Lilepo has scored 7 goals and provided 5 assists. Additionally, he has netted 1 goal in 11 appearances for the DR Congo national team. Sources suggest that Lilepo has already agreed to personal terms with Kaizer Chiefs, with Valenciennes under financial pressure to offload their assets due to their current struggles.
Lilepo’s football career has taken him across several countries and clubs. Born in Kinshasa, DR Congo, he began his professional career with AS Vita Club in his home country. His journey then took him to Mbabane Swallows in Eswatini before returning to AS Vita Club and later playing for FC Renaissance. His career continued to unfold with a move to Al-Hilal in Sudan before taking his first step outside Africa in September 2023. He moved to Valenciennes in Northern France for a transfer fee of €478,000 (R9.2 million).
With Chiefs now in pursuit, Lilepo’s experience could add depth and attacking flair to their squad, as the club looks to bolster its forward line.
In addition to Lilepo, Kaizer Chiefs are also making moves in their development ranks. Naledi Hlongwane, a rising star from the DDC (Diski Development Championship), has reportedly signed a three-year contract with the senior team. The 17-year-old striker gained significant attention after his stellar performance in the Carling Black Label Cup in December, where he scored for the All-Stars side. His strong showing in the tournament has earned him a spot in the first team, and he’s even been given a squad number.
After his goal-scoring heroics in the All-Stars game, Hlongwane expressed his admiration for Mfudo Vilakazi, another young player who has risen through the Naturena ranks, showing that the future of Chiefs’ attack is in good hands with their talented youth.
With these two new signings, Kaizer Chiefs are certainly making bold moves in the transfer window, and fans will be eager to see how Lilepo and Hlongwane integrate into the team in the coming months.
