Latest: Kaizer Chiefs set to win Thabo Cele race

The 28-year-old became available when his Russian Premier League side FC Fakel Voronezh confirmed last week the two parties had agreed to a contract termination due to Cele having to return home for family reasons.

FC Fakel also stated that the player was more than welcome to move on but was only allowed to join a South African club.

It’s understood this immediately opened the door for Chiefs, who have been long-time admirers of the player for several years now and have often missed out on the opportunity to get him on their books.

Cele has in the past preferred to continue his career abroad, however with the restrictions placed by FC Fakel it meant he only has one option, at least until the end of June as the agreement stipulates.

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The public broadcaster has been led to believe Cele will put pen to paper at Naturena should all the finer details be ironed out and boost coach Nasreddine Nabi’s squad and become a marquee signing for the Soweto giants.

Chiefs have already secured two transfers this January window with striker Tashreeq Morris joining from SuperSport United and winger Makabi Lilepo, who joins from French third division outfit Valenciennes.

Reports indicated Amakhosi paid R9.6-milliion for his services and now Cele will be the next to be added to the roster.