Breakthrough for Chiefs in Phili chase
Kaizer Chiefs have taken a major step towards signing Stellenbosch FC winger Langelihle Phili after the two clubs reached an agreement in principle over the proposed transfer.
Negotiations gathered pace this week after Chiefs improved their offer following several rounds of talks involving player-swap proposals and a cash component.
Earlier discussions included striker Ashley du Preez and another player as part of the deal, but Stellenbosch were reluctant to let Phili leave. The Cape Winelands side had preferred either an overseas move for the winger or for him to see out the remainder of his contract.
However, SABC Sport now reports that both clubs have agreed on the key aspects of the transfer, although a few finer details still need to be finalised before the deal can be officially completed.
If everything is concluded successfully, Chiefs will be in a strong position to complete the signing before the transfer window closes in September.
Phili is believed to be highly regarded by sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr and head coach Fernando Da Cruz, who is looking to add a versatile attacker capable of playing on either wing or just behind the striker.
Although no official announcement has been made yet, Chiefs now appear to be leading the race to sign one of the Betway Premiership’s most highly rated attacking talents.