Kaizer Chiefs are understood to be keeping a close eye on promising SuperSport United left-back Aphiwe Baliti, as they look to rebuild their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season. Following a campaign that, despite a Nedbank Cup triumph, saw them fail to secure a Top Eight finish in the Betway Premiership for the second consecutive year, Amakhosi are expected to ring the changes this off-season.
The Glamour Boys’ failure to qualify for the MTN8 once again – under yet another new coach in Nasreddine Nabi – has underlined the urgency of a significant squad refresh at Naturena.
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While the focus has largely been on bolstering the attacking department, defensive reinforcements are also firmly on the agenda, with particular attention being paid to the left-back position.
Currently, Chiefs have several players who can operate on the left side of defence, including Bradley Cross, Edmilson Dove, Happy Mashiane, and Bongani Sam.
However, that list could be significantly trimmed by the start of next season.
Sam, who joined from Orlando Pirates, did not make a single appearance this past campaign and is strongly linked with an exit.
Mashiane has continued to play a peripheral role and may also be affected by the planned changes.
Meanwhile, Dove’s contract is set to expire at the end of June, with talks over a renewal reportedly at a standstill.
With the possibility of three left-backs departing, Chiefs could be in the market for at least two reinforcements in that role, and Baliti appears to be one of the names high on their radar.
Sources close to the situation have indicated that the Soweto giants have expressed interest in the 23-year-old Baliti, who enjoyed a breakthrough season with SuperSport.
The young defender made 18 appearances across all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign, showcasing his pace, work rate, and composure – qualities that have not gone unnoticed by the Chiefs scouting team.
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“He’s been monitored closely by Chiefs for some time now,” said a source familiar with the matter. “They’ve been impressed with his development and view him as someone who can grow into a long-term solution at left-back. If all goes well, he could be the next player to make the move from SuperSport to Naturena.”
This potential move would continue the growing transfer relationship between the two clubs. In January, Chiefs signed Tashreeq Morris from Matsatsantsa, while Christian Saile headed in the opposite direction. The smooth dealings between the sides could pave the way for further transactions in this window.
