Now, Siya sources close to the club have indicated that even if a new left back comes in, Dove has new hope to remain in Chiefs' squad with a potential contract renewal.
Insiders have explained that Dove's recent registration as a local player, rather than a foreigner, has significantly boosted his chances of staying.
According to the sources, Chiefs are leaning toward keeping the Mozambican-born player since he no longer affects their foreign player quota.
"As for Edmilson Dove, he has the highest chance of staying on for next season because he is now registered as a local player. It's the localisation that is believed to save his career at Chiefs. So, for now we can say he is safe," the insider told the Siya crew.
A second source stated that even with Dove's potential retention, Chiefs remain active in scouting left-back options. One of their prime targets is Basadien, with the club working diligently to secure his signing despite Dove's status.
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"Yes, for now with Thatayaone Ditlhokwe gone he is believed to be the first choice left back with Bradley Cross as his deputy, as Happy Mashiane is out injured and Bongani Sam out of favour. But this doesn't mean the team will stop to fight for Fawaaz Basadien who they are working around the clock to sign. It just gives them the chance to sign more foreign players next season as Dove will be registered as a local player. But they are still fighting for Basadien," the second insider underlined.
Chiefs currently have four foreign players on their roster—Fiacre Ntwari, Inacio Miguel, Edison Castillo, and Makabi Lilepo. However, Ntwari may leave at the end of the season, as previously reported by the Siya crew, which could free up more space for new international talent.
Soccer Laduma contacted Chiefs for comment on Dove's future, but no response was provided at the time of publication.
