Jessica Motaung has slammed the idea that Kaizer Chiefs do not want to go all out and spend money in the transfer market like their rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.
Chiefs are typically linked to the PSL’s top players during nearly every transfer window. But they end up losing out on most of those players. Either because negotiations break down or because clubs simply reject their bids because they do not meet their asking price.
“Chiefs pay a lot of money, so I am actually quite surprised [by claims that Chiefs don’t want to spend]. I think that’s absolute nonsense if I look at our budget and I look at the investment we’re making with regards to the transfer space,” said the Chiefs marketing director during the Toyota Cup launch in Naturena on Thursday.
Made good investments
There is also a notion that fellow PSL teams tend to increase the price tag of their players whenever Amakhosi come knocking.
“I also think the SA market needs to evaluate itself…are the negotiations fair? Are the prices people are asking for players fair?
“We have to look at our industry. But certainly we’ve invested a lot not only in players but in the technical team as well. So you can see that Chiefs are putting their money where their mouth is,” Motaung added.
Yet to announce new signings
The reigning Nedbank Cup champions are yet to announce their new signings. But they are reported to have completed the acquisition of midfielder Ethan Chislett from Port Vale in England. As well as Pirates duo Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane.
Amakhosi are also heavily linked with several players. These include Europe-based defender Nkanyiso Shinga, Portuguese international striker Flavio Silver, and Asanele Velebayi from Cape Town Spurs, among others.
“I am aware of players who are signing. So once that’s sorted out, if they are ready to travel to the Netherlands, they will,” Motaung added.
Chiefs will be going to the Netherlands for a pre-season tour next month. And they will wrap it up at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, where they will host Asante Kotoko of Ghana in the Toyota Cup.
