The Bafana Bafana standout and free agent will be signed by the Kaizer Chiefs.

Thibang Phete, a Bafana Bafana international, is close to joining Kaizer Chiefs, suggesting the team would soon acquire another seasoned defender. As Amakhosi continues to add South African players stationed abroad to its roster, the 30-year-old center-back, who is now a free agent, has become a top target.

The Chiefs have now focused on central defense after acquiring Nkanyiso Shinga from FC Alverca, a Portuguese team, to cover the left-back position. Phete, who just made his comeback to the Premier League following a protracted injury layoff, is the ideal candidate.

In March, Phete returned to playing football professionally by joining IF Vestri, a top-tier Icelandic team. He made an immediate impression, appearing in seven of their twelve league games this season despite missing ten months of action. Phete formerly played for GD Chaves in Portugal in the 2023–2024 season. But when his contract expired, his one-year stay was up, and he was free to engage in negotiations with other suitors. Phete now comes out as a wise and seasoned addition to Kaizer Chiefs, given there is no need for a transfer fee and his fitness has been established.

Phete’s international credentials give the deal a lot of weight. In addition to his technical skill, he has four caps for South Africa and adds poise and leadership to a backline that has seen significant changes in recent months. A reliable source disclosed the most recent information. “At the moment, it appears possible, and discussions have started. It appears promising, and the Chiefs may have nearly fulfilled Phete’s reasonable expectations.

It is evident that Kaizer Chiefs have chosen to repatriate top-tier South African players from foreign leagues. With Phete close to a contract and Shinga essentially inked, the club isn’t showing any signs of slowing down in their quest for a more formidable, well-rounded team.