Kaizer Chiefs make R30m transfer decision, Orlando Pirates lurk

Kaizer Chiefs are believed to have thrown in the towel in the pursuit of one of their top transfer targets. 

Chiefs were believed to be competing with rivals Orlando Pirates to sign Nigerian international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali from Chippa United. 

Nwabali, who currently plies his trade for the Eastern Cape-based side, was a surprise inclusion as first choice for Nigeria at Afcon. This was due to the fact that he had only one cap for the Super Eagles prior to the showpiece. He would end up playing all seven games for Nigeria in Ivory Coast, keeping four clean sheets. He also played a huge role in the team finishing as runners-up at the tournament. That also saw his name and reputation skyrocket, with more European clubs reportedly on his radar, making things difficult for Chiefs.

Beyond European interest, Chiefs arch-rivals Pirates were also believed to have entered the race. In fact, this publication had reported they were willing to swap Ghana’s number one Richard Ofori for Nwabali. That deal is also thought to involve a cash exchange. Whatever the Buccaneers end up doing in their pursuit, doesn’t seem like Amakhosi will be willing to match. 

According to Soccer-Laduma, Chippa have slapped a R30 million price tag on Nwabali. That has then caused Chiefs to pull out. 

“It is no secret that Chiefs have been assessing options for a goalkeeper to potentially join the club next season. Stanley Nwabali is one of the players that the club has been monitoring. They had hoped to lure him in the same way they did with Daniel Akpeyi a few seasons ago.” 

Chiefs pull out due to R30 million price tag?

“But there seems to be a problem as Chippa are looking to cash in on the player (Nwabali). He did so well at Afcon. He is their prized asset. The club is looking for around R30 million for him and at that value not many clubs will be able to afford him, especially in South Africa. The good thing for Chiefs is that Bruce Bvuma has been doing well of late, and there’s also Brandon Petersen waiting in the queue for his chance. Both players recently signed contract extensions and Chiefs may just decide to look for someone who’s going to be a back-up in their goalkeeper search – a youngster,” said the source.

Pirates to negotiate with Chippa for Nwabali?

While Chiefs have appeared to rule themselves out, Pirates may look to use their good relationship with Chippa. This could see them get a price reduction or pay through player exchanges for Nwabali.