Charles Esther
Fiston Mayele will not be joining Kaizer Chiefs despite years of transfer speculation.
The Congolese striker, who currently plays for Pyramids FC in Egypt, has reportedly chosen to pursue a more lucrative opportunity in Saudi Arabia.
This decision ends any remaining hope for Chiefs fans who once believed the club would finally land the powerful forward.
Christian Bukasa Confirms Mayele’s Decision
Christian Bukasa, a close associate often referred to as Mayele’s “brother,” confirmed the striker has no interest in playing in South Africa.
Speaking to KickOff, Bukasa explained that the player had previously shown interest in joining a South African club but was turned down.
“Mayele wanted to come to South Africa while at Yanga, but Chiefs declined,” Bukasa said.
He added that reasons given included the striker’s age and financial expectations.
Now, after winning the CAF Champions League and improving his profile, Mayele is moving on to bigger financial prospects.
PSL No Longer an Option for Mayele
Bukasa made it clear that the DStv Premiership is no longer on Mayele’s radar.
“He won’t even go to Mamelodi Sundowns,” Bukasa stated.
“The PSL chapter is over.”
Bukasa revealed that clubs in Saudi Arabia are already negotiating a deal, which is expected to triple Mayele’s current salary.
This includes large performance bonuses that far exceed what he could earn in South Africa.
“At his age, he needs to secure his future,” Bukasa said.
Mayele’s Time in Africa Nearly Over
The 30-year-old striker has reached a stage in his career where financial security is the top priority.
According to Bukasa, only one African club could tempt Mayele now — Al Ahly of Egypt.
Even that seems unlikely, as his focus is now firmly on completing a deal in the Middle East.
“In Africa, besides Pyramids, he can only play for Al Ahly,” Bukasa emphasized.
Outside of that, he considers Saudi Arabia to be the next logical step.
Chiefs Miss Out After Years of Interest
Mayele had been on Kaizer Chiefs’ radar for nearly two years.
The club, however, hesitated when he was more affordable and eager to join.
Now that his value has skyrocketed, Chiefs are out of the race.
Mayele himself has reportedly said he will only return to South Africa on holiday to enjoy music like Amapiano — not to play soccer.
What’s Next for Kaizer Chiefs?
With Mayele officially out of the picture, Chiefs must now look elsewhere to strengthen their attack.
The club has long struggled to find a consistent goal-scorer and Mayele was seen as a potential solution.
Fans will likely question the management’s handling of the situation.
Was the decision to pass on Mayele a mistake that will haunt the club?
Only time will tell as Amakhosi continues its search for a dependable striker ahead of the new season.
