How much did Chiefs cough up for new striker?

Although Chiefs produced a competitive performance against Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday, they still ultimately suffered a frustrating 1-0 defeat, and failed to find the back of the net as several opportunities were squandered.

It’s clear that Chiefs need some more firepower up front, and it’s added extra anticipation after the club confirmed the signing of Congolese 22-year-old left-footed striker Christian Saile Basomboli, who arrives in Naturena after penning a three and half year deal with the Glamour Boys.

Interestingly, according to KickOff.com, an initial downpayment of R2-million was apparently made for his services, while that figure could reportedly come close to being doubled if he reaches certain performance targets.

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Basomboli is only expected to start training fully with his new Chiefs teammates this week, while it’s understood that his work permits also need to be sorted out first before becoming available to play.

It means there could be a waiting game of at least a few weeks before Basomboli makes his highly-anticipated Chiefs debut.

The abilities of the youngster, as well as what he offers with his left-footed abilities, will certainly serve to excite Amakhosi fans. Apparently he has now scored seven goals from 18 matches in the FAZ Super League this season.

The arrival of this recruit will also help boost Chiefs’ relative lack of depth in terms of strike-power, which has been exposed after a recent injury worry over Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana, who has been carrying a considerable weight of responsibility on his shoulders.

Former Zambia international, Kabaso Chongo, recently explained what the talented forward could add to Chiefs, although there has been little clarity over the figure that may have been agreed upon.

“He can play as a seven or even 11, and he will provide assists. But I think his best position is at number nine,” Chongo told FARPost. “When he plays number nine, he puts himself in goalscoring positions. Of course, when he plays on the wing, he will still create opportunities for others. 

“But you want him leading the attack, and I think that’s what a big team like Kaizer Chiefs needs. He has speed and can create opportunities for his teammates.”

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Chiefs are sixth on the PSL log