Kaizer Chiefs Face Major Setback in Pursuit of Fiston Mayele Amid Financial Hurdles
Kaizer Chiefs’ hopes of securing the signature of high-profile striker Fiston Mayele appear to be fading fast, as the financial demands surrounding the deal prove too steep for the South African giants. Despite a determined push from head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who was recently in Egypt to scout the Congolese forward, the gap between ambition and affordability is becoming increasingly evident.
Mayele, currently on the books of Egyptian powerhouse Pyramids FC, has emerged as a top target for Chiefs ahead of the new season. However, sources close to Amakhosi’s recruitment team have indicated that unless the player himself insists on reuniting with Nabi, the transfer is unlikely to materialise. Pyramids have reportedly tabled a new two-year contract worth around US$3 million (approximately R53 million), a figure well beyond what Chiefs can comfortably offer.
Insiders suggest that Chiefs are willing to offer Mayele a signing-on bonus of R5 million, spread across three seasons, along with a monthly salary in the region of R1 million to R1.5 million. Even at the top end of that scale, the total financial package over two years would amount to around R36 million—still significantly below the Egyptian club’s offer. For Mayele, who has already established himself as a top-tier striker in Africa, the lure of a richer deal and sustained continental success could outweigh the appeal of a move to the Premier Soccer League.
Further complicating matters is strong interest from other top clubs in Egypt, beyond just Pyramids FC. According to a North African football insider with knowledge of negotiations, multiple clubs in Cairo have shown interest in the Congolese star. This not only boosts his market value but also puts Chiefs at an even greater disadvantage in the race for his services.
Mayele joined Pyramids FC in 2023 on a three-year contract, set to expire in June 2026. Since arriving from Tanzanian side Yanga SC, the 29-year-old has been in prolific form, leading the club to their maiden CAF Champions League title. In a dominant campaign, Pyramids FC eliminated both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, with Mayele playing a key role in their historic run.
With his stock at an all-time high and financial backing from wealthy owners, Pyramids are determined to either keep Mayele or sell him to a club that can match or exceed their valuation. Chiefs, while ambitious, simply do not have the financial clout to compete at that level—unless, of course, Mayele prioritises a reunion with Nabi over a bigger payday.
The pursuit of Fiston Mayele highlights the growing financial divide between North African clubs and their South African counterparts. While the PSL remains one of the most competitive leagues on the continent, attracting elite-level talent increasingly requires more than just ambition—it requires serious financial muscle. For now, Chiefs can only hope that their coach’s bond with the player will tilt the balance in their favour, but as it stands, the deal remains a long shot.
