Advertisement
List of Kenyan players who have secured moves abroad in January transfer window
04th February, 2026 07:36 AM
The January 2026 transfer window has seen a wave of Kenyan footballers take bold steps abroad, moving to clubs across Europe and the Middle East.
From rising young talents making their first forays into professional football overseas to seasoned Harambee Stars internationals adding to their growing experience on the global stage, these moves reflect the increasing recognition of Kenyan players by foreign clubs.
The following are the players who secured moves during this window:
Collins Sichenje – Charlton Athletic
Harambee Stars centre-back Collins Sichenje signed a three-and-a-half-year deal with Charlton Athletic in the English Championship, arriving from Serbian SuperLiga side FK Vojvodina.
The 22-year-old expressed excitement at joining Charlton: “It feels amazing to be here… I am ready to go.” The English club’s manager, Nathan Jones, described him as an “aggressive, front-footed centre-back” who will strengthen their defensive line.
Manzur Okwaro – Stade de Reims
Harambee Stars defender Manzur Okwaro joined French Ligue 2 side Stade de Reims on a six-month loan from Nairobi United, with an option to buy.
The 19-year-old versatile defender, who can also play in midfield, will initially feature for Reims’ Pro 2 side as he adapts to European football.
Okwaro, capped ten times for Kenya, impressed during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025, where his composure and positional awareness stood out.
His move reunites him with national teammate Joseph Okumu, already part of the Reims senior squad.
Zak Vyner – Wrexham AFC
Eligible to represent Kenya through his mother, 28-year-old Zak Vyner completed a permanent move from Bristol City to Wrexham AFC.
The deal worth Ksh231 million. ends a 20-year association with Bristol City, where he made 264 appearances.
At Wrexham, Vyner steps into a crucial defensive role as the club pursues Premier League promotion ambitions.
Austin Odhiambo – Nejmeh SC
Harambee Stars midfielder Austin Odhiambo left Gor Mahia FC to join Lebanese side Nejmeh SC, joining compatriots Masud Juma and Teddy Akumu.
Nicknamed “Rolls Royce” for his smooth playing style, Odhiambo leaves a transformative stint in the Kenyan Premier League, including 12 goals and 13 assists in the 2023/24 season.
Amos Wanjala – Valencia CF
Kenyan defender Amos Wanjala signed with Valencia CF, joining the VCF Mestalla reserve squad. The 19-year-old arrives from Athletic Club Torrellano, bringing experience from Spain’s Tercera Federación and leadership from captaining Kenya’s U20 side at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Zech Obiero – Tranmere Rovers
Kenyan international Zech Obiero took the next step in his career after sealing a temporary move to English League Two side Tranmere Rovers.
The 21-year-old midfielder joined the Prenton Park outfit on loan from League One club Leyton Orient, with the agreement covering the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign. The move aims to give Obiero increased exposure to senior football as he continues to develop within the English football system.
Speaking after completing the switch, Obiero explained that consistent playing time was the key factor behind his decision.
“I’m really happy to be here, excited to start a new journey and just ready to get going. I would say I’m more attacking-minded. I do like to work hard. I do like to track back. But more going forward, I dribble and get goals and assists. That’s more my game,” Obiero said.
These transfers not only advance the players’ careers but also elevate the profile of Harambee Stars talent on the global football map.
Jack On’Ganya-Cádiz CF
Kenyan midfielder Jack On’Ganya also joined the list of players securing moves abroad, signing with Cádiz CF Mirandilla, the reserve side of Spanish Segunda División club Cádiz CF.
On’Ganya rose to prominence with Sofapaka FC during the 2024/25 FKF Premier League season, playing 32 matches, scoring 8 goals, and assisting 4, including a memorable hat-trick against Tusker FC.
Cádiz confirmed his signing, noting that the young midfielder will bolster their reserve team as he continues his development in Europe.
Author
William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
View all posts by William Muthama
