Kaizer Chiefs Captain Yusuf Maart Edges Closer to European Move Amid Pre-Season Absence

Kaizer Chiefs captain Yusuf Maart’s noticeable absence from the club’s pre-season tour in the Netherlands has raised eyebrows, and fresh reports suggest a move to Europe could be on the horizon for the influential midfielder.

Maart, whose contract with the Soweto giants expired on June 30, did not travel with the rest of the Amakhosi squad as they began their European pre-season camp. While the club retains the option to extend his deal, negotiations have reportedly stalled—paving the way for growing interest from abroad.

Sources close to the situation reveal that talks between Maart’s representatives and Austrian outfit SV Ried have gained momentum in recent days. The midfielder is believed to be open to the move, and both parties are said to be pushing to finalise the transfer before Chiefs wrap up their Netherlands tour.

The decision for Maart to remain in South Africa instead of joining his teammates has only intensified speculation that a switch to Europe is imminent. Though no official confirmation has been made, the midfielder’s absence is being viewed as a significant indicator of developments behind the scenes.

If the transfer goes through, it would mark a major loss for Kaizer Chiefs, who have already embarked on a bold rebuilding phase with six new signings unveiled ahead of the 2025/26 season. Maart, who joined from Sekhukhune United in 2022, has played a pivotal role in Chiefs’ midfield and has worn the captain’s armband with pride and consistency.

His departure would not only leave a leadership void but also disrupt the team’s tactical balance, especially at a time when the club is seeking to restore its dominance in local football. Chiefs fans will be hoping for clarity soon, as Maart’s future remains one of the most pressing issues facing the club this off-season.

While the club has yet to comment officially on the potential transfer, all signs suggest that Yusuf Maart could soon be the latest South African player to make the leap to Europe. Soccer Laduma reached out to Kaizer Chiefs for comment on the matter, but no response had been received by the time of publication.