Despite already securing signings in the current transfer window, Kaizer Chiefs are still looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season, with a Mamelodi Sundowns striker remaining a priority target.
As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, Amakhosi have identified Nigerian forward Etiosa Ighodaro as a key addition to their squad, though various complications surround the potential transfer.
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Insiders close to both clubs and the player have indicated that Chiefs' pursuit of Ighodaro hinges entirely on Sundowns' willingness to part ways with the striker, who still has a year remaining on his contract at Chloorkop.
"At the moment Chiefs are waiting on Sundowns. Ighodaro has one year remaining on his contract with Sundowns and only if they can release him first as a free agent or if they can buy him from the remaining months on his contract. But Chiefs are interested in him and depending on what Sundowns' decision is then Chiefs would still sign him before the start of the season," the insider told Soccer Laduma.
Meanwhile, a second source indicated that Ighodaro's pending immigration status could prove decisive in determining his future, potentially complicating Chiefs' transfer plans.
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"As soon as he obtains his Permanent Residence Permit then Sundowns are believed to be willing to keep him because he won't affect their foreign quota and then it would be difficult for Chiefs to sign him this season. But it's believed that if there is a fee to be paid then Sundowns would consider letting him go whether it's to Chiefs or any other team," the second insider told the Siya crew.
The 24-year-old Nigerian joined the Brazilians in 2021 on a five-year contract that expires next June. Despite being on Sundowns' books for three years, he has yet to make an official appearance for the club, spending his time in South Africa on various loan assignments. Last season, he represented AmaZulu FC, where he netted goals too.
Soccer Laduma contacted Chiefs for comment regarding their interest in Ighodaro but received no response at the time of publishing.
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