‘I am Gutted’ - Harambee Stars Midfielder Expresses Frustration After Ksh12M Transfer is Blocked

Harambee Stars midfielder Alpha Onyango has been left disappointed after his club Gor Mahia failed to sanction his transfer to Tunisian giants Etoile Sportive du Sahel.

Onyango was the subject of a near Ksh13 million bid from the 11-time Tunisian champions who recently signed his former team-mate Alphonce Omija.

However, a bid of $100,000 (Ksh12.9 million) was reportedly turned down by Gor Mahia, who are keen to hold onto the midfielder, as they see him as a key component of their team which is looking to reclaim the FKF Premier League title from Kenya Police.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

That has left Onyango in a spot of bother as he feels he has been denied a career-changing move after putting in the effort to impress clubs abroad during his time at Gor Mahia as well as Harambee Stars.

"I had two deals after the conclusion of the CHAN 2024 tournament. I was not keen on joining the Libyan club due to sporting reasons,” Onyango told Mozzart Sport.

“However, the Etoile project seemed promising and good for my progression. Unfortunately, my club rejected the $100,000 offer, insisting that I am not for sale, at least for now.”

Onyango was a standout performer for Benni McCarthy’s team during the 2024 African Nations Championships that was held in East Africa last month as Kenya reached the quarter-final.

He was a lynchpin in midfield, playing a key role as Kenya conceded just two goals, both penalties, while keeping three cleans sheets in five games and his performances attracted interest from clubs abroad.

Onyango now feels Gor Mahia are blocking his path to career progression with the Tunisia transfer window set to shut on Friday night which will lock him out of a move to Etoile du Sahel.

"I respectfully informed the club of my decision to leave, but it appears the deal will not sail through. I am gutted that my ambition to play football beyond our borders will flop. I truly believe the midfield is deep enough that the club can remain competitive, regardless of who leaves,” he added.

Onyango has been with Gor Mahia since 2017 when he joined the record Kenyan champions from Kakamega School.