Golden Arrows Confirm Interest in Kaizer Chiefs Star Naledi Hlongwane Ahead of January Transfer Window

Golden Arrows have confirmed interest in Kaizer Chiefs young star Naledi Hlongwane ahead of the upcoming January transfer window. The 19-year-old winger has impressed during his time with Chiefs’ youth and reserve sides, but competition from more experienced players has limited his opportunities in the senior team. A move to another top-flight PSL club could provide him with the necessary exposure and consistent playing time to develop further. With the January window approaching, attention is now on whether Chiefs will consider a permanent sale or a loan move for the promising talent.

The interest in Hlongwane comes after his recent performances in the Carling All-Stars exhibition match against Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Golden Arrows head coach Manqoba Mngqithi, who oversaw the All-Stars squad, singled out Hlongwane as one of the standout players. “There are quite a lot of youngsters that really caught my eye, I must be honest, but I think Naledi Hlongwane from Chiefs – he’s somebody that any coach in the PSL will be interested in having,” Mngqithi said. His performance alongside other Chiefs youth players like Brandon Petersen, Thulani Mabaso, and Mfundo Vilakazi further highlighted his potential.

Hlongwane has also spoken openly about the inspiration he draws from Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng. Both grew up in the Vaal region, playing against each other at primary school level. “I would say it’s Relebohile Mofokeng who inspires me…he’s the one who made me push myself because I was like, ‘This guy, we were playing together, and now he is in the first team of Pirates, playing regularly.’ I could say that it made me push myself to the limit,” Hlongwane explained. This motivation has driven him to aim for a breakthrough into Chiefs’ senior side.

Hlongwane’s bid to secure a regular spot in Kaizer Chiefs’ first team has faced challenges. He started the season with the senior squad but was eventually returned to the Development and Discovery Centre (DDC) alongside Kabelo Nkgwesa and Thulani Mabaso. Chiefs’ development coach Dillon Sheppard defended the decision, describing Hlongwane as a level-headed and confident player who continued to show quality despite the demotion. “Unfortunately, he missed a couple of weeks because he had a hamstring injury, so he didn’t have continuous game time. But he came on at the weekend, scored against Orlando Pirates reserves, and showed his quality,” Sheppard stated.

Hlongwane has also benefited from exposure outside South Africa, having participated in an 11-day tour of the United Kingdom in late November and early December. His performances on the tour and in domestic youth competitions have reinforced his potential to thrive at a senior level. With Golden Arrows expressing interest and the January transfer window approaching, Hlongwane could soon have the opportunity to gain the first-team experience that has so far eluded him at Kaizer Chiefs.

The coming weeks will be crucial for both Hlongwane and Chiefs as they assess the best path for his development. A move to another PSL club like Golden Arrows could provide the platform he needs to showcase his talent regularly. For supporters and scouts, Hlongwane remains one of the most promising young players in South African football, and his next career step will be closely watched.