{
  "id": 6259532,
  "title": "Thabo Cele set to join Sundowns after Chiefs exit?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/08/thabo-cele-set-to-join-sundowns-after-chiefs-exit",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-08T08:22:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/local-soccer/thabo-cele-set-to-join-sundowns-after-chiefs-exit/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Kaizer Chiefs have announced the mutual termination of midfielder Thabo Cele's contract with the club. The decision allows Cele to explore new opportunities while the Amakhosi continue reorganizing their squad for the upcoming 2026/27 season. Cele, who joined Chiefs in January 2025, had a successful tenure at the club, making 36 appearances in domestic and CAF competitions, including lifting the Nedbank Cup four months after his arrival.\n\nReports suggest that Thabo Cele has become a top target for Mamelodi Sundowns, the club's fierce rivals. The public broadcaster SABC Sports revealed that talks between the two sides have advanced significantly. The South African champions are reportedly keen on adding an experienced midfielder to their squad, following the tragic loss of Jayden Adams, which has increased the need for depth across the squad.",
  "summary": "During his 18 months with Chiefs, he made a total of 36 appearances in domestic and CAF competitions.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}