potential blockbuster move set to send shockwaves through the Premier Soccer League, Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly on the verge of securing the signature of Bafana Bafana star Percy Tau. According to close sources familiar with the negotiations, the deal is now “70% done” following a crucial meeting at the club’s headquarters today.
The sources indicate that Tau and his representative were present at the Chiefs Village in Naturena earlier on Tuesday to discuss the final details of a contract proposal tabled by the Amakhosi hierarchy. Crucially, it’s understood that the 30-year-old striker has shown a significant willingness to make this homecoming happen by agreeing to a reduction in his current salary demands.
This development represents a major breakthrough in a transfer saga that has captivated South African football fans for months. Bringing Tau back to the PSL, and specifically to Naturena, has long been seen as a major coup for any club, given his status as one of the country’s most talented and recognisable players.
**Key Details of the Deal:**
1. **Advanced Stage:** Negotiations have progressed significantly, with sources describing the deal as “70% complete” following today’s meeting. While not finalized, this indicates a high likelihood of completion barring unforeseen hitches.
2. **Tau’s Commitment:** Percy Tau has demonstrated a strong desire to join Chiefs, evidenced by his personal presence at Naturena and, most notably, his agreement to accept a lower salary than he has previously commanded, either at Al Ahly or during his European stint.
3. **Naturena Meeting:** The presence of both Tau and his agent at the Chiefs complex today underscores the seriousness of the discussions and the player’s intent.
4. **Chiefs’ Ambition:** Securing Tau would be a massive statement of intent from Kaizer Chiefs, signaling their determination to bolster their attacking options significantly after a period of underperformance in front of goal.
**Why This Move Matters:**
Percy Tau’s potential arrival at Chiefs isn’t just about signing a good player; it’s about acquiring a genuine game-changer. His creativity, vision, dribbling ability, and eye for goal have been showcased on the biggest stages, including the UEFA Champions League and AFCON. For a Chiefs side often criticised for lacking attacking spark and cutting edge, Tau represents a proven solution capable of unlocking defences and elevating the performance of those around him.
His return to South African football, after successful spells with Mamelodi Sundowns, Brighton & Hove Albion (with loans at Union SG, Club Brugge, and Anderlecht), and most recently Egyptian giants Al Ahly, would be a major boost for the local league’s profile.
**What Next?**
While the “70% done” status is highly encouraging for Amakhosi fans, the final 30% involves dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s. This includes finalizing the exact contract terms, likely undergoing a medical examination, and completing the formal registration process with the PSL. Given the player’s apparent commitment and the advanced stage of talks, these are expected to be procedural rather than prohibitive hurdles.
**Cautious Optimism:**
The football world is advised to await official confirmation from either Kaizer Chiefs or Percy Tau’s camp. However, the information from close sources points towards a deal nearing its conclusion, driven by the player’s willingness to compromise financially for a return to South Africa with the country’s most supported club.
If finalized, the signing of Percy Tau would undoubtedly be the marquee transfer of the PSL off-season, reigniting hope and excitement amongst the Kaizer Chiefs faithful desperate for a return to glory.
