Kaizer Chiefs have parted ways with midfielder Thabo Cele by mutual agreement, with the player now reportedly set to join reigning African champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Cele has completed his medical with Sundowns and is understood to have signed with the club after talks between the two parties progressed swiftly, according to information reaching FARPost. The club is expected to officially announce the deal.
Chiefs confirmed on Monday that Cele’s contract had been terminated following “constructive discussions” between the two parties.
The decision allows the KwaMashu-born midfielder to pursue a new opportunity as Chiefs continue reshaping their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Cele joined Amakhosi in January 2025 and made his debut in the Soweto Derby the following month.
During his 18-month spell at the club, he made 36 appearances across domestic and CAF competitions and helped Chiefs lift the Nedbank Cup just four months after his arrival.
However, Cele was left out of Chiefs’ pre-season tour of Spain, with head coach Fernando Da Cruz indicating that he had sufficient options in midfield.
His omission appeared to signal that Cele was no longer part of the coach’s plans for the new season.
Cele joined Chiefs after gaining experience abroad, including spells with Portuguese clubs Real SC and Cova da Piedade, Polish side Radomiak Radom and Russian outfit Fakel Voronezh.
A move to Sundowns would see the midfielder join a club competing on multiple fronts, including domestic competitions and continental football.
Chiefs thanked Cele, affectionately known as “Induna Yendawo”, for his commitment during his time at the club and wished him well in the next chapter of his career.
The reported move to Sundowns would also add another experienced midfielder to their squad as the club continues to strengthen its options for the new season.
Sundowns are also understood to have turned their attention to another midfielder following the completion of Cele’s signing.
