Kaizer Chiefs Step Up Pursuit of SuperSport United Defender Aphiwe Baliti

Kaizer Chiefs appear to be edging closer to securing the services of SuperSport United defender Aphiwe Baliti as they continue to strengthen their defensive ranks ahead of the 2025/26 season. This comes after the club parted ways with Edmilson Dove, leaving Happy Mashiane and Bradley Cross as their primary left-back options.

Following weeks of scouting and internal analysis, sources close to the Naturena camp have revealed that Chiefs’ recruitment and scouting departments are now satisfied with Baliti’s profile and believe he fits the team’s style of play.

“Yes, the department which deals with recruitment and scouting is happy and they have advanced their approach in the search to sign Aphiwe,” an insider told the Siya crew. “Initially, it was just interest, but they needed to do a thorough analysis and assessment to make sure he fits Kaizer Chiefs’ philosophy and style of play. Now they believe he does, and they’re ready to move to the next step.”

Baliti, 23, enjoyed his breakthrough season with SuperSport United last term, making multiple appearances in the DStv Premiership. His combination of youth and top-flight experience seems to align perfectly with Chiefs’ current recruitment strategy, which is geared towards building a younger, more dynamic squad.

Another source with knowledge of Chiefs’ defensive recruitment plans highlighted that while the club has promoted promising left-backs from their youth setup, experience remains a key consideration.

“Yes, there are youngsters who have been promoted and will be traveling with the team to the Netherlands for pre-season, but Baliti has more experience at senior level,” the source explained. “The club has tried to secure players like Fawaaz Basadien and Mohamed Hussein but it’s believed those deals are currently out of reach. That’s why Baliti is now a top priority.”

Baliti’s potential arrival would bring much-needed depth to the left side of Chiefs’ defense, particularly given the busy domestic and continental schedule the club is likely to face this season. His pace, defensive discipline, and ability to contribute in attack have reportedly impressed Chiefs’ technical team.

At the time of publishing, Kaizer Chiefs had not officially commented on the transfer speculation. However, with the club’s pre-season tour of the Netherlands fast approaching, a final decision on Baliti’s future could be made soon.

Should the move go through, Baliti would become another piece in Chiefs’ ongoing squad rebuild under new leadership, as they look to return to the top of South African football.