Kaizer Chiefs have clinched an agreement with Portuguese top-flight side FC Alverca to sign left-back Nkanyiso Shinga, as previously reported.
The completion of the deal now hinges on a medical and finalising personal terms.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi specifically requested a left-back to replace Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, who left for Libyan powerhouse Al Ittihad in February. The Botswana international’s departure left a glaring hole in Chiefs’ defence.
Nabi battled to find a reliable replacement. Bongani Sam, who arrived from Orlando Pirates at the start of the season, didn’t make a single appearance. Bradley Cross attempted to fill the void but failed to impose himself. By season’s end, he had shifted into a left centre-back role after Rushwin Dortley suffered an injury.
Despite signing Paseka Mako, Chiefs kept pushing for Shinga, who remained their top target.
Shinga deal complicated by promotion and contract
Amakhosi first approached Shinga late last year. However, Alverca’s recent promotion to the Primeira Liga complicated matters. The club, partially owned by Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr., wanted to extend Shinga’s contract. He had just one year remaining on his current deal, set to expire in June 2026.
Still, Chiefs remained determined. Shinga’s consistent performances, including 22 appearances last season, made him a priority.
Chiefs push for early arrival before Dutch tour
The Soweto giants are eager to finalise the deal and have Shinga available before departing for their pre-season tour in the Netherlands. Chiefs will kick off their tour on 8 July against SBV Vitesse Arnhem, followed by fixtures against FC Utrecht (11 July), NEC Nijmegen (12 July), PEC Zwolle (15 July), and FC Twente Enschede (16 July).
Seven-year Portuguese journey nears end
Shinga has spent seven years honing his craft in Portugal, turning out for Vitória Setúbal, Pinhalnovense, Juventude de Évora, and the Amadora Star before landing at Alverca in 2024. His journey now appears set to continue in the colours of Kaizer Chiefs.
Bringing in Shinga marks a critical step in rebuilding a defence that has struggled for consistency. And signals Chiefs’ intent to revive their glory days.
Will Shinga have the desired impact that Kaizer Chiefs supporters are hoping for?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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