The winds of the 2026 transfer market are beginning to blow with significant force toward Naturena. As the Saudi Pro League continues its aggressive expansion into global football, Al-Ittihad has reportedly set its sights on Kaizer Chiefs’ Congolese forward, Makabi Glody Lilepo.
Following a season where the “Amakhosi” have finally found a winning rhythm, the potential departure of one of their most influential attackers has sent shockwaves through the fan base.
For Al-Ittihad, the interest represents a strategic move to bolster an attack that has been in transition since the departure of Karim Benzema earlier this year.
The Saudi “Jeddah” Connection
Al-Ittihad, based in Jeddah, is currently undergoing a radical offensive reshuffle. After the high-profile exit of Karim Benzema to Al-Hilal in the winter window, the club brought in Moroccan international Youssef En-Nesyri and the young sensation George Ilenikhena.
However, reports from the Kingdom suggest that the hierarchy remains unsatisfied with the consistency of their wide-attacking options.
Lilepo, who has previously played for Al-Hilal Omdurman in Sudan, is no stranger to the high-pressure environment of Arab football. His success in the CAF Champions League and the Arab Club Champions Cup during his time in North Africa has made him a familiar profile to Middle Eastern scouts.
Al-Ittihad’s interest is said to be driven by Lilepo’s unique combination of explosive pace and tactical versatility, qualities that would allow him to operate effectively alongside En-Nesyri.
Lilepo’s “Golden Year” at Naturena
The 28-year-old’s 2025/26 campaign in the Betway Premiership has been nothing short of a revelation. Since arriving from French side Valenciennes FC in early 2025, Lilepo has adapted to the South African game with remarkable speed.
Makabi Glody Lilepo: 2025/26 Statistics (All Competitions):
- Appearances: 21
- Goals: 5
- Assists: 2
- Minutes Played: 1,586
- Average Rating: 7.1
His impact has been most felt in critical moments. Just last month, Lilepo scored the decisive winning goal in the 1–0 victory over Durban City—a result that helped Kaizer Chiefs snap a losing streak and regain their grip on a top-three finish.
His ability to deliver in “clutch” situations is precisely why Al-Ittihad is reportedly willing to table a significant offer to lure him away from Soweto before his contract expires in 2027.
The Financial Tug-of-War
While Kaizer Chiefs are historically reluctant to sell their best performers mid-project, the financial might of the Saudi Pro League is difficult to ignore. Lilepo joined Chiefs for an estimated fee of €500,000 (approx. R10 Million).
Given his current form and the premium often paid by Saudi clubs, Al-Ittihad could realistically offer a package that triples the Amakhosi’s initial investment.
For Chiefs’ Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr., the decision presents a massive dilemma:
- The Case for Selling: Reinvesting a massive transfer fee into a younger squad could accelerate the club’s long-term rebuilding phase.
- The Case for Keeping: Lilepo has become a fan favorite and a tactical pillar. Replacing a player of his caliber while the team is chasing CAF Champions League qualification for next season would be a high-risk gamble.
The National Team Implications
Lilepo’s move to Saudi Arabia could also have significant ramifications for his international career with the DR Congo.
Recent reports indicate that the Congolese national team coach has been hesitant to call up players based in Africa, preferring those in European leagues.
However, the Saudi Pro League is now viewed with a different level of respect. Moving to Al-Ittihad would see Lilepo competing against global stars like Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Ivan Toney on a weekly basis.
This “elite exposure” might be the final push needed to secure his place in the Leopards’ squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Conclusion: A Defining Window
As of late April 2026, no formal offer has been submitted to the Chiefs board, but the interest is “very real,” according to sources close to the player’s representatives.
Al-Ittihad is known for moving quickly once they identify a target, and with the Saudi summer window approaching, the pressure on Naturena will only intensify.
For Glody Lilepo, the choice is between becoming a modern legend at one of Africa’s most storied clubs or taking a life-changing leap into the “New Frontier” of global football in Jeddah. One thing is certain: whether he stays or goes, the 2025/26 season has proven that Lilepo is a player of truly international pedigree.
Makabi Lilepo’s Recent Form (April 2026)
- April 18 vs Polokwane City: Played 90 minutes in a goalless draw; maintained defensive discipline.
- April 15 vs Magesi FC: Contributed significantly to a 2–0 win.
- April 12 vs TS Galaxy: Scored in a dominant 2–0 victory at FNB Stadium.
- March 15 vs Durban City: Scored the only goal in a 1–0 match-winning performance.
