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Thabo Cele Leaves Kaizer Chiefs as Sundowns Open Advanced Talks

Sundowns are pursuing Cele to bolster midfield depth after Jayden Adams' death during a congested domestic and continental season.

Overview

  • Kaizer Chiefs confirmed on Monday that Thabo Cele and the club ended their contract by mutual agreement, freeing the 29-year-old to seek new clubs.
  • Cele had been left out of new coach Fernando da Cruz’s plans, missed the club’s pre-season tour of Spain and spent recent weeks training apart from the first team.
  • The midfielder joined Chiefs in January 2025 from FC Fakel Voronezh and made 21 appearances in the 2025/26 season after an earlier period of strong contributions.
  • SABC Sport and other outlets report Mamelodi Sundowns have opened advanced talks with Cele but no contract is confirmed and personal terms are still being finalised.
  • If signed, Cele would add experienced midfield depth to Sundowns, who have been active in the free-agent market and are managing squad needs after Jayden Adams' death and a heavy fixture schedule.