Thabiso Kutumela’s resurgence on the international stage has sparked a transfer battle, with Chippa United now facing stiff competition in their pursuit of the experienced forward.
The 32-year-old striker, who has rolled back the years with standout performances for Bafana Bafana at the African Nations Championship (CHAN), was on Chippa’s radar earlier in pre-season.
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The Eastern Cape outfit had explored the possibility of bringing him in but circumstances at the time prevented the deal from materialising, with technical decisions around the squad standing in the way.
Now, with Luc Eymael set to take charge at the Chilli Boys, the club has revived its interest in the former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns hitman.
However, Kutumela’s exploits in the continental tournament have opened the door to multiple suitors, both locally and abroad.
According to Siya sources, AmaZulu have made concrete moves for the striker and are keen to conclude a deal should an agreement be reached.
The Durban-based club is believed to be pushing hard to secure his services before the window closes, and they are currently seen as frontrunners in the race.
Usuthu are not alone though, as interest from outside South Africa continues to mount. Sudanese giants Al-Hilal and an unnamed Albanian club are said to be monitoring his progress closely, while PSL outfits Siwelele FC and Marumo Gallants have also shown admiration for his talents.
“Kutumela has shown that he can still deliver at the highest level,” said a source. “His goals at CHAN have reminded clubs of his quality and now the market has opened up for him. AmaZulu have already made their approach, but other options remain very much alive.”
Kutumela’s track record speaks for itself. Having risen to prominence at Baroka FC, he went on to don the colours of Pirates, Maritzburg United and Sundowns, where he lifted back-to-back Premiership titles in 2021/22 and 2022/23.
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He also had spells with Cape Town City and Richards Bay, though limited game time left question marks over his career trajectory.
Now, his performances in the green and gold have reignited interest and put him in a position to secure one more big move before the end of the window.
