The Kenyan Premier League (KPL) is bracing for a high-stakes January transfer window as Ulinzi Stars hitman Paul Okoth becomes the hottest property in East and Central African football.
Following a sensational first half of the season, the forward has reportedly caught the eye of heavyweights in Rwanda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Zambia, sparking fears among the “Soldiers” faithful that their talisman could be headed for the exit.
Leading the Golden Boot Race
Okoth has been in irrepressible form, currently sitting at the summit of the KPL scoring charts with 9 goals. His stock reached an all-time high just this week when he netted a brilliant hat-trick in Ulinzi’s final match of the year—a commanding 3-0 victory over Posta Rangers on Monday.
The former Migori Youth striker, who was also named the KPL Player of the Month for November, has become the focal point of Stephen Ochola’s side, providing the lethal finishing that has helped the military side navigate a challenging start to the campaign.
Coach Ochola Remains Defiant
Despite the growing list of suitors across the border, Ulinzi Stars head coach Stephen Ochola is standing firm. Speaking on the intense speculation, Ochola acknowledged the interest but insisted that the club has no intention of letting their star man leave mid-season. “Paul has attracted significant interest from several clubs, which is expected given his form,” Ochola revealed to the Kenya Media. “However, he is a core part of our project. I am confident he will stay put beyond the January window as we look to climb higher up the table.”
A Regional Battle Looming
The identity of the interested clubs remains a closely guarded secret, but the regions mentioned suggest that some of the continent’s biggest spenders are circling.
Tanzania: Giants like Simba SC and Young Africans (Yanga) are known to monitor the Kenyan market closely.
Rwanda & Zambia: Both leagues offer competitive packages that have lured top Kenyan talent in recent years.
For Ugandan fans and scouts keeping an eye on the KPL, Okoth’s trajectory is a testament to the rising quality of the league. Whether Ulinzi can resist a lucrative “petro-dollar” offer from Lusaka or Dar es Salaam remains to be seen.
KPL Top Scorer Standings (as of Dec 23, 2025)
- Paul Okoth, Ulinzi Stars, 9 goals
- Joe Waithira, Murang’a SEAL, 7 goals.
- Erick Kapaito, Tusker FC, 4goals.
- Felix Oluoch, Gor Mahia, 4 goals.
Ulinzi Stars currently sit 14th on the log with 16 points, and losing a player who has contributed more than half of their total goals could be a devastating blow to their 2026 ambitions.
