The Glamour Boys remain determined to bring the junior international to Naturena before the start of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season as coach Fernando da Cruz continues reshaping his squad during the club’s pre-season camp in Spain.
Although neither club has publicly confirmed negotiations, the public broadcaster understands discussions between the parties are progressing, with Chiefs now looking to sweeten their proposal.Chiefs first showed interest in Phili during the January transfer window when the winger also attracted an offer from Al-Ittihad Tripoli in Libya. Stellenbosch, however, were reluctant to lose one of their key players midway through the season without sufficient time to source a replacement.
The situation has since changed…
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With Phili entering the final year of his contract, Stellenbosch are understood to be open to a transfer rather than risk losing him for free at the end of the campaign.
Talks behind the scenes indicates that Ashley du Preez has already agreed personal terms with Stellenbosch, subject to Phili moving in the opposite direction.
Chiefs are now believed to be prepared to add another player, together with a cash payment, in an attempt to bridge the gap between the two clubs and finalise a deal.It’s not yet clear who the player is.
Whether the revised proposal is enough remains to be seen, with Stellenbosch weighing up the improved offer against the possibility of keeping one of their prized assets for another season before he becomes a free agent.
du Preez was bought by Chiefs from Stellies four years ago and now looks set to return to his old stomping ground – but only if Phili goes in the opposite direction