Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly ramped up their efforts to sign Stellenbosch FC standout Langelihle Phili, with the Soweto club now ready to submit a revised offer that consists of two players plus a cash component, as they face mounting competition for one of South African football’s most promising attacks.
As the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season approaches, Amakhosi seem intent on acquiring Phili’s services while head coach Fernando da Cruz focuses on restructuring his team for the upcoming season.
As reported by SABC Sport, talks between Chiefs and Stellenbosch are making headway, although neither side has publicly acknowledged the discussions. Sources indicate that Chiefs are enhancing their bid to persuade Stellenbosch to release the highly regarded winger.
Chiefs first showed interest in Phili during the January transfer window, but Stellenbosch opted to retain one of their vital players amid a competitive season. The club was committed to achieving its goals on various fronts and chose not to part with the attacker.
The circumstances have shifted significantly of late.
Phili is now entering the last year of his contract, putting Stellenbosch in a precarious situation. To avoid the risk of losing the winger for nothing at the end of his deal, the Cape Winelands team is reportedly more inclined to negotiate a sale in this transfer window.
Ashley du Preez is believed to be a key part of the proposed transaction. Reports suggest that the Chiefs forward has already reached some personal agreement with Stellenbosch, but his transfer hinges on Phili making the move to Naturena.
Additionally, Chiefs are thought to have included another player in their proposal, along with a cash amount, but the name of this second player has not been revealed yet.
The bolstered offer comes amid increasing rivalry for Phili’s signature.
Young Africans, the Tanzanian club led by former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi, have reportedly entered the fray for the 24-year-old, with the club willing to meet Stellenbosch’s complete asking price of R16 million, putting additional pressure on Chiefs to finalize the deal promptly.
The development of a new serious contender seems to have prompted Chiefs to enhance their proposal to avoid losing one of their main transfer targets once again.
At this stage, negotiations are ongoing. While no official agreement has been reached yet, the next few days could be crucial as Chiefs strive to secure one of the Premier Soccer League’s coveted forwards before the new season kicks off.
