The Lower Tiers understands that Kilmarnock are preparing to make a second attempt to sign highly-rated Cardiff City youngster Tanatswa Nyakuhwa, with the Scottish Premiership side hopeful of striking a deal when the January transfer window opens. Killie previously failed in their pursuit of the 20-year-old during the summer, when Cardiff blocked a proposed loan […]
The Lower Tiers understands that Kilmarnock are preparing to make a second attempt to sign highly-rated Cardiff City youngster Tanatswa Nyakuhwa, with the Scottish Premiership side hopeful of striking a deal when the January transfer window opens.
Killie previously failed in their pursuit of the 20-year-old during the summer, when Cardiff blocked a proposed loan move. On September 1, the BBC reported that the Bluebirds had rejected four separate loan offers for Nyakuhwa, underlining how highly he was regarded internally. Kilmarnock were one of those suitors, alongside Belgian giants Anderlecht and two unnamed EFL clubs, but Cardiff opted to keep the academy graduate close as he continued his rapid rise.
That decision was heavily influenced by Nyakuhwa’s standout performance in Cardiff’s 3-0 victory over Cheltenham Town. Despite being a natural forward, he completed the full 90 minutes in a central midfield role, delivering a commanding display that showcased his maturity, composure and tactical intelligence. His ability to control possession, coupled with an impressive work ethic, convinced club staff he was ready to edge closer to regular first-team involvement.
However, with Cardiff now more open to a loan move this January, Kilmarnock are expected to revive their interest as they look to bolster their attacking options for the second half of the season.
Nyakuhwa’s growing reputation has also been reinforced by senior figures within the Cardiff squad. Star winger Chris Willock has publicly tipped the youngster to enjoy a “wonderful career”, admitting he sees aspects of his own game in the academy graduate. Nyakuhwa is now pushing Willock, along with fellow young talents Cian Ashford and Isaak Davies, for a starting place.
“I speak to Tan a lot. I think he’s a really good player,” Willock said. “He’s got a bit of flair about him. He likes to take players on and get the crowd going. I’m sure he’ll push on.”
Whether that next step comes in Cardiff colours or on loan at Kilmarnock could be one of January’s more intriguing subplots.
