Kenyan international and versatile defender Joseph Okumu is set to exit French side Reims FC following their relegation from the top flight to the second division (Ligue 2), Footy-Africa sources have exclusively learned.
Reims’ drop to the second division has forced the club to put several of their most valuable players on the market as they seek to raise revenue for sustainability. Okumu, who has reportedly attracted interest from Italian side AS Roma, could fetch the club up to €15 million.
In an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa, a source at Elite Project Group Limited, who represent the 28-year-old, revealed that Reims has informed them of their intention to sell the player in a bid to raise funds. He was signed from Belgian side KAA Gent for a fee rising to €10 million, with his contract running until 2028.
“We have been informed of a decision to sell him (Okumu) by the club, should suitors come knocking with a worthy bid to raise a bit of revenue. They’re also aware that their most important players will start asking to leave after the relegation, so they want to maximise the situation. If a top team shows up with the right fee, he is obviously going to leave. AS Roma is a rumour we know of, but they are yet to submit an offer,” the source exclusively told Footy-Africa.
Before joining Reims, Okumu spent two seasons at Gent where he made 92 appearances. He also played for Swedish side IF Elfsborg, Real Monarchs in the MLS Next Pro League, and Free State Stars FC in South Africa. His rise dates back to his native Kenya, where he played at Chemelil Sugar and Kakamega High School.
Meanwhile, on the international stage, Okumu—whose Transfermarkt valuation is estimated at €7 million—has earned 27 caps with Kenya’s senior national team, the Harambee Stars. He remains arguably the country’s most important player given his ability and experience.
