Kaizer Chiefs duo Leonardo Castro and George Maluleka have both reportedly turned down fresh contract offers from the club.

Both midfielder Maluleka and forward Castro have been locked in negotiations over the last few months as Chiefs look to hold on to their best talent with the potential Fifa transfer ban still looming over the club.

Both players’ contracts lapse at the end of the season in June, which would allow them to leave the club for free, while Chiefs could possibly not be able to sign adequate replacements due to the transfer ban.

Castro was recently asked about his contract situation, but the forward inisisted that he was only focused on this season and any questions should be directed to coach Ernst Middendorp and Amakhosi management.

According to SoccerLaduma, though, the forward is still irked by the situation at the start of the season where he was considered surplus to requirements and placed on the transfer list.

It is also believed that Moroocan club Wydad Casablanca remain interested in the Colombian, which could also be affecting any new deal.

Maluleka, on the other hand, looks the more likely of the two to sign an extension, with his deal also set to lapse at the end of the season.

According to reports, Maluleka is looking to sign a long-term deal, while the club has only offered a short-term contract but, with Middendorp keen to get him signed up as soon as possible, the club could give into his demands.

‘I think one of the most important parameters to how we are dealing with the season is that we have consistency in terms of our set-up and core players. For us, it is each and everybody, therefore I hope that George’s contract is wrapped up as quick as possible and get the final discussions done, he is very crucial for Kaizer Chiefs – a number of players,’ said Middendorp.