Kaizer Chiefs are believed to be ready to make some major changes to their playing staff next season.
Even though there have been names linked with a move to Chiefs, the club is also set to release some.
Players like Siyethemba Sithebe and Sifiso Hlanti have been mentioned, with their deals up soon. They have been joined by Happy Mashiane and Zitha Kwinika of late. One player that has been fighting those exit rumours at Chiefs is Njabulo Ngcobo. Now besides those names, the likes of Edmilson Dove, George Matlou and Keagan Dolly will see their contracts run out.
One player who you would not think is in contention to leave Chiefs is midfielder Edson Castillo. Castillo was Chiefs’ standout performer during the first half of the season, adjusting well to the local league. The Venezuelan joined Chiefs from Monagas SC and hit the ground running for Chiefs. The 29-year-old has been a mainstay in the club’s midfield, both in defence and attack. His box-to-box nature has seen him make some big tackles, telling passes and even arrive late to score himself. Castillo has already bagged five goals in all competitions for the club so far.
Zamalek interested in R30-40 million deal for Castillo!
His performances have caught more than just the eye of the South African football fraternity, with some continental rivals also rumoured to be interested in taking Castillo away from Chiefs. Earlier this year, this publication reported that Zamalek wanted the player. It was then established that Amakhosi wanted a whopping R40 million for him.
This publication recently revealed that Chiefs were willing to sell Castillo to Zamalek for R30 million now. But according to Soccer-Laduma, their stance on the player has changed completely!
Chiefs change their mind on deal?
“It’s a fact Zamalek FC are interested in Castillo and the team (Chiefs) will make sure they keep him and that’s why they have activated the one-year option and added yet another year to it. His initial contract was ending in June 2025 but now it will run until June 2027. So that will give them enough negotiating powers when a team wants him. It’s good for the team as he will be on the price they want.” Said the source.
It remains to be seen if Chiefs will let Castillo go should they get a top offer for his services.