Kaizer Chiefs prospect Steven Mendes has emerged as a reported target for Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire after impressing for Amajita at the COSAFA U20 tournament in Mozambique.
The 18-year-old finished as the competition’s Golden Boot winner in Maputo, despite being a midfielder by trade. He was converted into a striker for the tournament and made a strong enough impression to attract attention beyond South Africa.
Some of Mendes’ team-mates have given him the nickname ‘Stevie G’, while Kaizer Chiefs Diski Challenge coach Vela Khumalo believes the teenager is already equipped to step up to the club’s senior team.
Khumalo has praised Mendes’ maturity and natural ability, suggesting the young player could handle the demands of first-team football. Local reports have now linked him with interest from Chicago Fire, although there has been no confirmation of a transfer offer or agreement.
Chiefs’ need for attacking options comes as their form has become increasingly inconsistent. They have drawn four of their seven league matches and dropped points in four of their past five games.
Their scoring record has also dipped, with the club finding the net only once across their last two matches. Wandile Duba’s absence has been particularly significant, with the forward having scored three goals in four Betway Premiership appearances this season.
Kaizer Chiefs’ next league fixture is against Stellenbosch on Saturday, 17 October at 15:30. The club will hope the lengthy international break has provided an opportunity to regroup before returning to domestic action.
Despite a number of players being unavailable, there are some positive developments in the squad. Long-term absentee Langelihle Phili could return in mid-October, giving the team another option as the season progresses.
Defender Rushwin Dortley was an unused substitute in the match against Golden Arrows, another indication that his return to full fitness is nearing. The 24-year-old has not played a competitive match for Kaizer Chiefs since suffering a serious knee injury in March 2025.
Dortley’s eventual return would provide a boost to a side dealing with several absences, while Mendes’ performances have raised the possibility of a senior-team opportunity for the teenager this season.
Whether Mendes remains with the club, attracts a move abroad or makes his Kaizer Chiefs first-team debut will become clearer as the campaign develops.