Why Kaizer Chiefs declined opportunity to sign Thulani Serero

Kaizer Chiefs made three new acquisitions, making them one of the more active teams in the recently concluded January transfer period.

Chiefs were desperate to sign experienced players that could immediately improve their squad depth and fortunes. 

Chiefs made three signings

Amakhosi went on to sign DRC international winger Glody Lilepo, striker Tashreeq Morris and Thabo Cele. The two forwards Lilepo and Morris were confirmed to have signed a 2-and-a-half year deals. While midfielder Cele, however, has signed a three-and-a-half year deal with Chiefs. They were also rumoured to be interested in an experienced player who can play as an attacking midfielder. 

This was characterised by the pursuit of Mamelodi Sundowns star and now Wydad Casablanca loanee Thembinkosi Lorch. But that deal didn’t go through. Another ex-Chiefs target was also available in Thulani Serero on a free transfer. The former Ajax Amsterdam star arrived in South Africa last week and trained with Cape Town City. This publication reported that he is set to sign with the side. 

Now according to Soccer-Laduma, Chiefs decided against reigniting their interest in Serero.

Why they decided against signing Serero

“Chiefs wanted a well experienced midfielder like Thulani Serero but they had to look at the team’s past experiences with players like him who come at an expense and at times when things don’t work out for the team. They didn’t want to have the same challenge they experienced when signing Keagan Dolly and Khama Billiat. Yes, they are different players but they believe that experience is the best teacher and they have learnt from that. That was the main reason why they could not go ahead signing Serero though they know he is a good player but they had to consider other factors as well,” said the source.