Who is Nkanyiso Shinga? Meet Durban-born defender set to join Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs have taken a major step in bolstering their defensive lineup by reaching an agreement to sign 25-year-old left-back Nkanyiso Shinga—pending personal terms and a medical. The Durban-born defender is currently with Portugal’s FC Alverca, who secured promotion to the top tier this season .

Shinga’s Form in Portugal Earning Chiefs’ Attention

Nkanyiso Shinga has been a stalwart for Alverca, featuring in 20 league games during the successful campaign—establishing himself as their first-choice left-back before missing a couple of matches due to injury . Analysts note that his consistent performances and durability have made him a standout prospect among South African defenders abroad .

Promotion Changes Transfer Dynamics

Alverca’s recent promotion to Portugal’s Primeira Liga was part of a high-profile takeover that included Brazilian star Vinícius Jr . The promoted club is expected to invest heavily to remain competitive, meaning they’ll likely offer Shinga a new contract, complicating Chiefs’ recruitment efforts .

Chiefs Moving Beyond Local Talent

Faced with challenges in securing domestic left-back targets—most notably Fawaaz Basadien, who extended his contract with Stellenbosch—Chiefs have expanded their scouting to Europe, zeroing in on Shinga thanks to his Portuguese form . With his Alverca deal set to expire in June 2025, Chiefs could finalise a free transfer, pending agreement .

Key Benefits for Amakhosi

1. Experience in European football: Shinga’s season in Portugal brings valuable continental credentials.

2. Position need: Kaizer Chiefs have been desperate to fill a reliable left-back slot after Basadien’s exit.

3. Budget-friendly acquisition: With his contract ending, a zero-fee move makes financial sense.

   
   
   

4. Seamless integration: His South African roots and international maturity aid squad harmony.

Next Steps: From Agreement to Arrival

Before the deal is complete, Kaizer Chiefs and Shinga’s representatives must finalise:

• Personal terms and contract length

• Medical examination at Amakhosi’s clinic

• Work permit and visa arrangements, standard for international recruits

  
  
  

Chiefs aim to integrate him ahead of their pre-season European tour, giving him time to adapt to the tactical system under coach Nasreddine Nabi.

Reactions from Chiefs Scouting Sources

Prince Sobayeni, a notable digital scout, underlined the challenge in prising Shinga away from a newly-promoted Alverca, but praised his impact:

“Nkanyiso has been a regular, the number one left back the whole season and is an important member of Alverca.”

The source also emphasised that promotion makes retention likely, adding complexity to Chiefs’ efforts .

The anticipated signing of Nkanyiso Shinga shows Kaizer Chiefs’ ambition to reinforce from a global talent pool and fill critical defensive gaps with international experience. With agreement in place, attention now shifts to formalising terms and ensuring a smooth transition ahead of a demanding new season.