Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly secured the signing of Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana on a free transfer, providing an explosive injection of flair to the Glamour Boys’ attacking frontline.
The 27-year-old international attacker, who recently became a free agent following a premature departure from Tunisian giants Esperance de Tunis, has agreed to personal terms at Naturena, with an official announcement from the club expected imminently.
A Long-Awaited Union
The transfer marks a major breakthrough in a long-standing pursuit for Kaizer Chiefs. The Soweto giants had initially identified the explosive winger as a primary target during his breakout stint with Sekhukhune United.
However, in August 2024, Esperance outbid local suitors to take the talented wide man to North Africa.
Mokwana’s journey abroad proved complex. After showing early promise in Tunisia, he spent a loan spell with Saudi Pro League side Al Hazem during the 2025/26 campaign.
Upon his return to Esperance, contract complications and a mutual termination left him unattached by late 2026, alerting the continent’s top sides.
While Moroccan outfit Wydad Athletic Club initially attempted to sign him, registration bottlenecks collapsed the deal, paving a clear path for a return to South Africa. Driven by a lifelong ambition to don the iconic gold and black kit, Mokwana reportedly chose to take a salary cut to ensure the deal moved across the line.
The Blueprint for Revival
Amakhosi have struggled with offensive consistency in the early phases of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season under the technical guidance of coach Fernando da Cruz.
Despite extensive recruitment over the last window, the team has lacked the ruthless cutting edge required to break down stubborn low blocks.
Mokwana’s arrival addresses a desperate need for a highly dynamic, direct winger who can operate effectively on the right channel.
Club legend Itumeleng Khune publicly endorsed the move, comparing Mokwana’s playing style to one of Naturena’s most beloved past icons.
Speaking on SABC Sport’s Soccer Zone, Khune noted:
“Mokwana reminds me of Jabu ‘Shuffle’ Pule back then… Very skilful, not shy to take on players. He can create goals, he can score goals, so he can be a great addition to the team.”
What Lies Ahead
With international pedigree—boasting 11 caps and key goals for Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad—Mokwana brings vital experience to a relatively young attacking unit that includes talents like Mduduzi Shabalala and Mfundo Vilakazi.
His ability to carry the creative burden will relieve pressure on these younger components while giving the club the direct wing-play necessary to challenge the league’s elite.
The contract is subject to a completed medical examination at the club’s medical headquarters later this week.
For the Amakhosi faithful, getting a marquee free-agent signing of Mokwana’s caliber represents a massive statement of intent as the club aims to restore its former glory.
