150 moves in KPL transfer market
It is all systems in for the Kenyan Premier League after Football Kenya Federation published the transfers list on their website ahead of the new season.
It has been a busy window with at least 151 confirmed moves in the top tier shared between 17 clubs with the newly promoted Vihiga United yet to submit squad members.
Defending champions Gor Mahia have enlisted a whopping 17 new faces while releasing 15 players including the versatile midfielder Lawrence Juma who reportedly pocketed a staggering Sh2.8 million sign on fee as he signed for 2009 Champions Sofapaka FC.
At least 13 foreigners have joined the top tier which will now be referred to as the BetKing Football Kenya Federation Premier League.
K’Ogalo who are seen as favourites once again have made eye-catching signings especially on their frontline with the inclusion of former APR Rwanda attacker Jules Ulimwengu, ex-Vipers FC offensive player Tito Okello and former Western Stima teenage sensation Benson Omalla.
In the off-season, Gor Mahia also brought in Malawian midfielder Andrew Malisero, speedy winger John Macharia and Cameroonian midfield enforcer Bertrand Konfor.
At the same time, the club brought in experienced tactician Roberto Oliviera Goncalves, a Brazilian national.
The trio of former league champions Tusker FC, Sofapaka FC and AFC Leopards have also been busy.
The Leopards have not only brought in 13 quality players including former captain Duncan Otieno from Zambian side Nkana FC but have also acquired the services of Czech tactician Thomas Trucha formerly of Botswana giants Township Rollers FC.
As for Batoto ba Mungu who have shown intent of going for the title, club president Elly Kalekwa has gone all out, splashing the cash and going for big names like highly rated central defender Michael Kibwage formerly of KCB, Lawrence Juma from Gor Mahia who is considered a prime catch and veteran striker Paul Kiongera formerly of Ushuru FC.
John Baraza’s side also have Nigerian international Michael Karamor formerly of Lagos Athletico and Rwandese forward Isaac Mitima formerly of APR Rwanda who came in after his former club was compensated Sh1 million.
Former champions Tusker FC and Ulinzi Stars have not been very active and instead selected to maintain their squads. The pair has only collectively signed seven players, while Zoo FC has signed only five players.
All eyes will also be on the newcomers Bidco United and Nairobi City Stars. The pair signed a combined 22 players.
with the latter having in place at least three players with no premiership experience.
