Kaizer Chiefs Eye Rising Star Aphiwe Baliti in Bid to Bolster Left-Back Options

Kaizer Chiefs are understood to be closely monitoring the progress of SuperSport United’s rising left-back, Aphiwe Baliti, as they prepare for a major squad overhaul ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Despite ending the season with silverware in the form of the Nedbank Cup, the Glamour Boys endured another underwhelming league campaign, finishing outside the Top Eight in the Betway Premiership for the second successive year. The disappointing result means they have once again missed out on MTN8 qualification, piling pressure on new head coach Nasreddine Nabi to deliver a turnaround.

As part of their rebuilding efforts, Amakhosi are expected to make sweeping changes to their squad, with both attacking and defensive departments under review. One of the key areas earmarked for reinforcement is the left-back position, where changes are anticipated before the new season kicks off.

Currently, the Naturena outfit boasts several players capable of operating on the left flank of defence, including Bradley Cross, Edmilson Dove, Happy Mashiane, and Bongani Sam. However, the list is likely to be trimmed significantly during the off-season.

Sam, who arrived from arch-rivals Orlando Pirates, failed to make a single appearance in the recent campaign and is expected to depart. Mashiane has struggled to establish himself and could also be on the move, while Dove’s contract is set to expire at the end of June, with renewal talks reportedly stalled.

This situation leaves Chiefs potentially short-handed at left-back, prompting the club to explore the transfer market for fresh talent – with 23-year-old Aphiwe Baliti emerging as a top candidate.

Baliti enjoyed a strong 2024/25 season with SuperSport United, making 18 appearances across all competitions and catching the eye with his speed, stamina, and composure under pressure. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Chiefs’ scouts reportedly tracking his development for some time.

“He’s been monitored closely by Chiefs for some time now,” a source close to the club revealed. “They’ve been impressed with his development and view him as someone who can grow into a long-term solution at left-back. If all goes well, he could be the next player to make the move from SuperSport to Naturena.”

Should a move materialise, Baliti would be the latest player to switch between the two clubs, continuing a transfer relationship that has grown in recent windows. Earlier this year, Chiefs secured the services of Tashreeq Morris from Matsatsantsa, while Christian Saile moved in the opposite direction.

The existing rapport between the two clubs could smoothen any potential negotiations, making Baliti an accessible and strategic target for Amakhosi.

As the 2025/26 season approaches, Kaizer Chiefs are clearly aiming to rejuvenate their squad with young, dynamic talent – and Baliti fits the bill. With multiple departures expected in his position, his arrival could mark the beginning of a new defensive era at Naturena.