Charles Esther
Kaizer Chiefs are actively working to rebuild their squad ahead of the new season, with changes expected in both attack and defense.
While much of the media attention has centered on the club’s search for clinical forwards, Kaizer Chiefs are also turning their attention to the goalkeeping department.
Within the first 150 words, it’s clear that the focus is shifting as Kaizer Chiefs target Renaldo Leaner to replace outgoing players and solidify their last line of defense.
Chiefs Look to Reinforce the Goalkeeping Position
Kaizer Chiefs have made it a priority to strengthen their defensive core following a disappointing season filled with instability and inconsistency at the back.
The club’s defensive struggles were partly due to the introduction of several new players, including Bradley Cross, Rushwin Dortley, and Inacio Miguel.
These defenders were joined by Rwandan goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, who also arrived at the start of the season.
Despite high hopes, the group conceded several goals in the early stages, leading to rotation and changes in the starting lineup.
Both Cross and Ntwari were benched as the team searched for stability.
Ntwari Could Be On His Way Out
Although Cross managed to redeem himself toward the end of the campaign and now looks set to remain at the club, the same cannot be said for Ntwari.
The Rwandan international dropped down to third choice by season’s end, signaling a potential exit in the upcoming transfer window.
Chiefs are looking to free up a foreign player slot, and Ntwari is believed to be one of the names at risk.
This situation has prompted the club’s interest in Renaldo Leaner, a local talent who recently earned a call-up to the Bafana Bafana senior national team.
Renaldo Leaner Emerges as Key Target
According to a report from iDiski Times, Kaizer Chiefs are set to make an official inquiry to Sekhukhune United for goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner.
Leaner’s rise has not gone unnoticed, especially after breaking into the senior national team setup with strong domestic performances.
His potential move to Chiefs could offer a long-term solution between the posts and reduce the club’s dependency on international players in that role.
A local signing like Leaner would also offer better squad flexibility and compliance with league regulations on foreign players.
What Leaner’s Arrival Could Mean for Other Keepers
If Kaizer Chiefs succeed in acquiring Renaldo Leaner, it could trigger a reshuffle within the goalkeeping unit.
Ntwari’s exit seems almost certain if Leaner is brought in.
However, the futures of Brandon Petersen and Bruce Bvuma could also come under review.
Chiefs may decide to retain only two of the current three keepers, depending on how the roster and salary budget shape up.
That would likely lead to increased competition for the number one jersey heading into the new season.
Fans React to Potential Signing
The possible signing of Renaldo Leaner has sparked discussions among Kaizer Chiefs supporters.
Some fans see him as a fresh, promising talent who can bring long-term stability to the goalkeeping position.
Others remain cautious, questioning whether the club should offload experienced players like Petersen or Bvuma so quickly.
Ultimately, the success of this move will depend on how well Leaner adapts to the pressure of playing for one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.
Chiefs Planning Holistic Squad Upgrades
Kaizer Chiefs are not only focusing on the goalkeeping department.
They have made it clear that every area of the squad is under review, including attack, midfield, and defense.
After back-to-back underwhelming seasons, Amakhosi management is determined to avoid a repeat.
Recruiting high-performing players like Leaner aligns with their vision of building a competitive, well-rounded team that can challenge for honors.
Looking Ahead to the New Season
As preparations for the upcoming season intensify, Kaizer Chiefs are working quietly but deliberately to finalize their transfer targets.
Whether or not they succeed in signing Renaldo Leaner, it’s evident that goalkeeping remains a top priority for the technical team.
Fans will be eager to see how these changes unfold and whether the club can finally restore its former glory.
