Gor Mahia close to signing Ugandan midfielder as Denis Omedi deal stalls amid South African side interest

Ugandan midfielder meeting Gor Mahia's Ambrose Rachier in August 2021, a time when many believed he would sign.

Gor Mahia close to signing Ugandan midfielder as Denis Omedi deal stalls amid South African side interest

Festus Chuma 18:51 - 01.07.2024

K'Ogalo are close to signing a Ugandan midfielder after a failed attempt in 2021, hoping for success this time.

Record FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia are set to bolster their squad with the signing of Ugandan midfielder Chris Pius Akena as a free agent.

This move comes after negotiations for another Ugandan striker Denis Omedi fell through.

According to sources privy to the talks, Gor Mahia had shown keen interest in Omedi, but negotiations with his current club, Kitara FC, hit a snag.

Ugandan publication Swift Sports reported that Kitara FC demanded a transfer fee of $100,000 (approximately Ksh 10 million), while Gor Mahia were only willing to offer half that amount, $50,000 (around Ksh 5 million).

Consequently, the two clubs could not reach an agreement. Reports suggest that Kitara FC is now in advanced talks with a South African club regarding Omedi’s transfer.

Omedi still has a year remaining on his contract with Kitara FC.

With the Omedi deal off the table, Gor Mahia swiftly turned their attention to Chris Pius Akena.

Akena, who recently parted ways with Al Rams Sports Club, a first division team in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is now set to join the Kenyan champions.

His addition is expected to strengthen Gor Mahia's midfield, adding both depth and experience.

Akena’s football journey began at the Pro-Way Soccer Academy and he later honed his skills at the Qatar ASPIRE Academy Football Project.

His professional career saw him feature for Shabab Reserve before making the move to the senior team of FC Shabab Al Ahli Dubai.

Akena has also represented his national team the Uganda Cranes earning two international caps.

This acquisition comes as Gor Mahia aims to reinforce their squad ahead of the new season, hoping to maintain their dominant position in the FKF Premier League.