Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates target Stanley Nwabali has reportedly handed in a transfer request ahead of the 2024/2025 off-season.
Chippa United shot-stopper is one of the players that both clubs are eyeing, and he is said to be looking to leave the Chilli Boys.
According to The Citizen, the Nigerian international has rejected an improved contract extension offer from Chippa and handed in a transfer request.
“Chippa tabled an improved offer to Nwabali to remain at the club, but he wants a new challenge. As you are aware, there are clubs in Europe and big teams in South Africa that are after his services, so he wants to test himself at a bigger club,” said The Citizen source.
At 27 years old, Nwabali is entering the prime of his career and is looking for greener pastures. The two Soweto giants, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, are not the only clubs interested in signing him.
Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League and Queens Park Rangers in the lower divisions of English football are also keen on securing his services.
Nwabali’s decision to seek a move comes from a desire to challenge himself at a higher level.
“What I can say for sure is that Nwabali does not want to play for Chippa next season. He wants a bigger challenge. Chippa have been good to him and he doesn’t want to leave just because he is unhappy at the club. He is happy, but he wants a new challenge.”
Nwabali’s potential departure from Chippa United could significantly impact the club. He has been a key player for the team, and losing him would be a big blow.
However, the opportunity to play for a bigger club in South Africa or even a team in Europe or the Middle East is a tempting prospect for any player looking to elevate their career.
For Chiefs and Pirates, signing a goalkeeper of Nwabali’s calibre would be a significant boost.
Both clubs are constantly looking to strengthen their squads to compete at the highest level, and a reliable shot-stopper like Nwabali could be just what they need.
Nwabali’s impressive performances at Chippa have not gone unnoticed. His ability to make crucial saves and command his area has earned him recognition as one of the top goalkeepers in the league.
This has naturally attracted interest from other clubs, both locally and internationally. Al-Ettifaq’s interest in Nwabali highlights the growing trend of South African players being targeted by clubs in the Middle East.
The financial incentives and the chance to play in a different footballing environment are attractive to many players.
Similarly, Queens Park Rangers’ interest shows that there is a belief in Nwabali’s ability to succeed in European football.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Nwabali’s future. His current club, Chippa United, will likely try to persuade him to stay, but the lure of a new challenge may prove too strong.
For Nwabali, this is an opportunity to step up and test himself at a higher level, whether it be in the South African Premier Division, the Saudi Pro League, or the English Football League.
As the off-season approaches, the transfer market is set to heat up, and Stanley Nwabali’s situation will be one to watch closely.
His decision will not only impact his career but also the fortunes of the clubs involved.