With Congolese attacker Glody Makabi Lilepo’s current agreement entering its final year, his future at Naturena is coming under increasing scrutiny, and Kaizer Chiefs may soon have to make one of their most critical contract decisions.
Lilepo, who signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with Amakhosi during the January 2025 transfer window, has become an integral part of the club’s offensive strategy since his arrival. He is a key part of the Chiefs’ rebuilding effort thanks to his speed, creativity, and goal-scoring abilities, but his contract status is starting to matter a lot.
He is entering what is commonly known as the “slippery space” of contract discussions with only one year left on his deal with the Chiefs. Without a new agreement in place, the 28-year-old will be able to approach foreign clubs in January to discuss pre-contract terms, leaving the door open for a possible free move after the season ends.
For the Soweto giants, the time is a huge obstacle. As a key cog in the club’s plans to reclaim South African football’s top spot, Lilepo has emerged as one of the team’s most impressive players after joining from Valenciennes in France.
Even outside of the Betway Premiership, people have taken notice of his performances. Chiefs may need to act quickly to ensure the long-term future of the DR Congo international before interest from North African teams grows, according to reports that have surfaced in recent months.
The club would be wise to keep hold of one of its most valuable assets, Lilepo, by extending his contract rather than risk losing him for free when his present one ends. If the Chiefs do nothing, they may have to make a tough choice: cash in before the transfer window ends or go into the second half of the season worried about one of their top performers.
There doesn’t seem to be any clear sign that Lilepo is trying to get out of here. After adjusting to life in South Africa, the forward has quickly become an integral part of the Chiefs’ locker room. Contract conditions can change rapidly due to discussions and interest from other teams, as is typical in professional football.
When the new season rolls around, fans will be watching Naturena to see if Chiefs are able to sign one of their most prized attackers or if Lilepo’s future becomes a major storyline for the club.