AFC Leopards, the 12-time Kenyan Premier League champions, are actively negotiating to secure the services of Ugandan attacking midfielder Allan Okello, according to club Secretary General Isaac Mulindi. However, the official cautioned that sealing the deal for the prolific forward will be a challenging endeavor.
For years, the Nairobi-based club has grappled with a lack of consistent goal-scoring prowess, a critical factor in their failure to clinch a league title since 1998. Mulindi emphasized that bolstering the attacking line is a top priority to reverse the club’s prolonged trophy drought. “Strengthening our forward line is essential to achieving our ambitions,” he stated.
How Allan Okello Caught the Eye of Kenya-Based AFC Leopards
At 25, Okello has established himself as a standout performer in the Ugandan Premier League, captaining Vipers SC and earning the 2024/25 Golden Boot with an impressive tally of 19 goals. His impact extends to the international stage, where he has been a key figure for the Uganda Cranes. Okello played a pivotal role in guiding his national team to the quarterfinals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), highlighted by his equalizing goal in a thrilling 3–3 draw against South Africa, securing a matchup against Morocco. Currently, he shares the tournament’s top-scorer title with three goals, alongside Morocco’s Ousama Lamlioui and South Africa’s Thabiso Kutumela.
Isaac Mulindi praised Okello’s abilities, describing him as “a highly skilled and seasoned talent who aligns perfectly with our vision for Leopards.” He added, “When you see him on the pitch, his quality is undeniable. He’s the kind of player who can elevate our squad and help us achieve our objectives.”
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AFC Leopards Face Stiff Competition and Challenges in Securing Allan Okello’s Signature
Despite their enthusiasm, Leopards face significant hurdles in securing Okello’s signature. Isaac Mulindi acknowledged the fierce competition from foreign clubs offering lucrative opportunities. “Many talented players like Okello are being courted by overseas teams,” he noted. “We need to confirm their interest in joining us before moving forward. Leopards will focus on players committed to our project, regardless of their talent.”
As rival clubs bolster their squads ahead of the new season, Mulindi urged Leopards’ supporters to remain patient. “We are working diligently to stabilize the club and position it for success,” he assured. “Our fans can trust that we’re on the right path. We just need a little time.”
The pursuit of Allan Okello underscores the determination of Leopards’ newly elected leadership, Chairman Boniface Ambani, Secretary General Isaac Mulindi, and Treasurer Newton Mulindi, to restore the club’s storied legacy. With a clear focus on revitalizing the squad, the administration is eager to usher in a new era of dominance for one of Kenya’s most decorated football clubs.