Benson Omalla: Gor Mahia Striker’s Transfer to Algerian Club JS Saoura Hits Snag

• There is uncertainty on whether Benson Omalla will leave Gor Mahia
• The Harambee Stars striker was tipped to Join Algerian side JS Saoura
• The deal has reportedly fallen through after the club opted for a local player

Gor Mahia's hopes of loaning out star striker Benson Omalla to Algerian side Jeunesse Sportive de la Saoura (JS Saoura) have been dashed as complications arose, preventing the deal's completion.

Despite negotiations for a six-month loan stint, Omalla's move failed to materialize within the Algerian transfer window's deadline, with the club opting to recruit local talent instead.

The proposed deal could have reportedly fetched the Football Kenya Federation Premier League leaders Ksh3.2 million, with a potential permanent transfer and a monthly salary of 1.3 million shillings for Omalla.

Arsenal transfer news: Which players did Arsenal bring in during the January transfer window?

Football

As of Monday, February 5, 5:30 pm, there was no formal request for Omalla's transfer, as reported by Capital Sports.

Dismissing rumours linking Omala to USM Alger, Gor Mahia stressed the player's dedication to the team, asserting no official offers had been received.

Coach Johnathan McKinstry echoed the club's stance, confirming no formal contact with the North African giants regarding the transfer.

Following an impressive 2022/23 season, Omalla, attracting interest from clubs across Africa, had emerged as a target for renowned teams like Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Yanga, as reported by Pulse Sports.

The striker's journey from his roots at Kisumu Day to Gor Mahia, via Western Stima and a brief spell in Sweden, culminated in a prolific season, with 26 goals to his name, cementing his status as one of Kenya's brightest talents.

Debuting for the national team against Seychelles, Omala addressed the recent speculations surrounding his future, emphasizing his focus on the present.

Ghanaian journalists clash with Black Stars players and officials after Mozambique draw

Football

Amidst Omalla's transfer saga, Gor Mahia faced a setback in their unbeaten streak, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat against Kenya Police FC in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League, on Saturday, February 3.

The match was overshadowed by discontent among Gor Mahia supporters over the club's decision to increase ticket prices at Nairobi's Sacco Stadium.

Despite the loss, the perennial Kenyan champions maintain their lead in the league standings with 43 points.

Young talent Mark Shaban joins Gor Mahia

Sports Brief reported when Gor Mahia signed Mark Shaban, who opted for the perennial Kenya champions over derby rivals AFC Leopards.

There was speculation that Shaban would join Ingwe, especially after a viral online clip showed him riding with club chairman Dan Shikanda.

However, the talented forward officially became K'Ogalo's third signing in the January transfer window on January 25.