Langelihle Phili has arrived in Johannesburg to complete his move from Stellenbosch FC to Kaizer Chiefs, with the striker expected to be unveiled by the club next week.
The 21-year-old is set to become Amakhosi’s fourth major signing for the upcoming season after Chiefs reached an agreement with Stellenbosch FC.
Phili was spotted at OR Tambo International Airport, according to FARPost, as the final stages of the transfer began. Before the move can be formally announced, he is expected to undergo routine medical tests.
Personal terms are also believed to have been agreed, leaving the striker close to completing a switch which has been under discussion for some time.
Phili has been linked with Kaizer Chiefs for a long period, although negotiations between the two clubs had previously failed to produce an agreement. The latest development indicates that the two sides have now resolved the outstanding issues and reached a deal for the Stellenbosch FC forward.
His arrival would add to a busy transfer window for Kaizer Chiefs. Phili is expected to follow Renaldo Leaner, Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko and Thabo Moloisane as the club’s fourth major signing ahead of the new campaign.
Phili has made 72 appearances for the Winelands-based club, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists. Those figures form the basis of his senior experience before the proposed move to Amakhosi.
The striker has also represented South Africa at Under-20 level. He won seven caps for South Africa U20, although he did not score during those appearances.
Kaizer Chiefs are now expected to complete the remaining formalities before making Phili’s move official. His medical examination and the conclusion of the personal arrangements are the next steps before a public announcement can be made.
The transfer would bring to an end Phili’s time with Stellenbosch FC and give him the opportunity to continue his career at Kaizer Chiefs. The Johannesburg club’s agreement with Stellenbosch FC has cleared the main obstacle that had prevented the move from being completed earlier.
Phili’s expected unveiling is likely to take place in the coming week, subject to the completion of the medical process. Until then, he remains a Stellenbosch FC player, although his arrival in Johannesburg has increased expectations that the transfer will soon be confirmed.
The move comes as Kaizer Chiefs continue to shape their squad for the upcoming season. With Leaner, Bitegeko and Moloisane already listed among the club’s major additions, Phili would be the latest arrival as Amakhosi strengthen their options before the campaign begins.
