Five transfers that could define the Betway Premiership 2026/2027 season

The transfer window is often remembered for big names, but history shows that trophies are rarely decided solely by reputation. Some acquisitions fundamentally change clubs, while others subtly adjust the balance of power without attracting much attention.

Key events before the season

With only three weeks left until the start of the new Betway Premiership season, five deals stand out as the most likely factors to shape the upcoming campaign.

Player transfers

One of the most discussed moves in the current window is the transfer of Relobokhile Mofokeng to Belgium. The 21-year-old player left Orlando Pirates, where he established himself as one of the league's brightest talents, playing a key role in winning the domestic treble and becoming one of the team's most reliable attacking players during South Africa's memorable World Cup campaign under Hugo Broos.

His absence will pose the biggest challenge to Abdelsalam Waddu, as he must replace Mofokeng's goals, creativity, and unpredictability. This transfer also marks an important milestone for South African football, as another young athlete has chosen Europe for further development.

The situation surrounding Peter Shalulile

Peter Shalulile's departure from Mamelodi Sundowns is unlikely to weaken the team in the near future. The Namibian spent much of last season in limited playing time, while Brian Leon established himself as Miguel Cardoso's preferred striker and justified the trust with a outstanding scoring campaign.

Nevertheless, the significance of this transfer lies not in who Sundowns loses, but in who might sign him. The seasoned PSL goalscorer rarely becomes a free agent, and if Shalulile joins one of Sundowns' direct title rivals, his experience, leadership qualities, and knack for scoring could significantly alter the balance of power in the league. His next destination could be as important as Mofokeng's departure from Pirates.

The arrival of Siyanda Ndlovu

Some transfers send a stronger signal in the off-season. After Ndlovu reportedly underwent medical examinations at Orlando Pirates, it seemed he was heading to Mayfair, but Sundowns dramatically entered the race and secured his signing.

This move not only strengthened an already powerful squad but also highlighted Sundowns' unparalleled purchasing power in the local market. It also demonstrated the club's determination to invest in the future, even after already returning to the top of African football.

Coaching staff changes

Cedric Khase, former Kaizer Chiefs coach, and Khalil Ben-Youssef joined Sekhukhune United and Durban City, respectively, to prove themselves.

Cedric Khase's appointment at Sekhukhune United could be one of the smartest decisions of this window, as he takes charge of an ambitious club that has undergone significant changes both on and off the pitch. If Khase quickly establishes his footballing identity, Babina Noko has a chance to become genuine contenders for a top-four spot and participation in continental competitions.

As for Kaizer Chiefs, coach Fernando Da Cruz has fully taken up his posts, demonstrating clear intentions, strong leadership, and overall belief in the team's potential. Da Cruz's return to Naturena generates additional interest after he left for the Moroccan Football Federation shortly before the start of last season. Now, working with an updated technical staff, Da Cruz must prove that he is not just another rebuilding project, but a coach capable of bringing the Chiefs back into real title contention.