Full list of free agents Kaizer Chiefs signed in the past 12 months and what it means for the new season

Kaizer Chiefs have increasingly turned to the free-agent market over the past year, signing several players without transfer fees as they rebuild the squad ahead of the 2026/27 season, according to The South African.

Who arrived as free agents

According to The South African, Kaizer Chiefs signed seven free agents last season as part of their squad rebuild. The report lists the following arrivals: Ethan Chislett, Thabiso Monyane, Paseka Mako, Lebohang Maboe, Asanele Velebayi, Luke Baartman and Etiosa Ighodaro.

How those signings fared

The South African says Monyane and Maboe established themselves as regular starters for Chiefs, while Velebayi and Chislett showed encouraging signs. The outlet adds that the remaining free-agent additions struggled to make a significant impact.

Early moves ahead of 2026/27

Per The South African, Amakhosi have already secured the signature of defender Thabo Moloisane on a free transfer ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. The report describes the club’s growing reliance on free agents as a talking point among supporters.

Potential targets and squad changes

The South African notes that experienced players such as Tshegofatso Mabasa, Percy Tau and Peter Shalulile are currently available as free agents, and says it remains to be seen whether Kaizer Chiefs will move for any of them during the current transfer window.

Coaching and departures

According to The South African, Kaizer Chiefs’ new head coach Fernando Da Cruz has yet to make his first signing since taking charge. The report also states the club has confirmed the departures of George Matlou and Happy Mashiane.

What the report highlights

The South African frames Chiefs’ recent transfer strategy as one of increased reliance on free agents, noting both successful integrations and signings that struggled to influence the first team. The report raises questions about whether the club will continue down that route this window.

Reporting in this article is based on claims attributed to The South African.