Kaizer Chiefs have underlined their ambitions for the new season by sealing the permanent signing of forward Khanyisa Mayo from Algerian champions CR Belouizdad after an injury-hit but promising loan spell.
The Soweto giants confirmed on Thursday that Mayo, who spent last season on loan at Naturena, has now joined on a long-term deal for an undisclosed fee ahead of a demanding domestic and CAF campaign.
Chiefs gamble on potential after mixed loan spell
Mayo’s first year with the Glamour Boys delivered flashes of quality but was heavily disrupted by fitness problems and a lack of rhythm.
The former Cape Town City winger, 26, featured only 15 times in all competitions, scoring two goals as recurring injuries limited his impact and prevented him from building sustained form.
Despite that stop-start campaign, head coach Fernando Da Cruz and the club’s hierarchy have opted to back his potential, banking on his pace, direct running and ability to operate across the front line as Chiefs remodel their attack.
With a full pre-season now ahead of him, both club and player hope he can finally put his fitness issues behind him and emerge as a central figure in Da Cruz’s plans.
Club statement confirms long-term commitment
In a statement announcing the deal, Chiefs said:
“Kaizer Chiefs have completed the permanent signing of Khanyisa Mayo from Algerian giants CR Belouizdad, following his loan spell with the Glamour Boys last season. The deal was finalised for an undisclosed fee agreed upon between the two Clubs,” reads the club statement.
“Mayo, who worked hard during his one-season loan stint, now commits his future to Chiefs as the team prepares for an ambitious campaign under head coach Fernando Da Cruz. The 27-year-old forward will be a key part of the squad competing in both the domestic league and continental CAF competitions.
“Known for his pace, creativity, and eye for goal, Mayo has already established himself as a fan favourite at Naturena. His permanent move strengthens Amakhosi’s attacking options and signals the Club’s intent to challenge for glory both locally and across Africa.
“We welcome Khanyisa officially and look forward to his continued contributions.”
Fourth new arrival in Chiefs rebuild
Mayo is the fourth confirmed signing of the current transfer window as Chiefs move to reshape a squad expected to contest on multiple fronts.
He joins defender Thabo Moloisane, goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner and Tanzanian midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko among the new arrivals at Naturena, as Amakhosi seek to return to the summit of South African football and make an impression in CAF competition.
The club’s recruitment drive suggests a concerted effort to inject fresh energy and depth into key areas, with Mayo’s versatility in the front line viewed as a crucial asset for the coming season.
Chance to justify faith and fan backing
Mayo’s pace, creativity and willingness to run at defenders have already helped him become a popular figure with sections of the Chiefs support, even in a season constrained by injuries.
His permanent move now gives him the platform to justify that faith, both from supporters and from Da Cruz, as he aims to evolve from promising loanee to a consistent match-winner.
With the club framing the transfer as a statement of intent “to challenge for glory both locally and across Africa”, Mayo will be expected to play a significant role as Chiefs chase silverware on domestic and continental stages.
