Harambee Stars Defender Okumu Signs Five-Year Deal with French Club Stade de Reims

Harambee Stars defender Joseph ‘Crouch’ Okumu’s trajectory continues to soar as he secures a significant move to French top-tier side Stade de Reims, signing a five-year contract after departing from Belgian club KAA Gent.

Reims officially unveiled Okumu on Saturday evening, marking a momentous step in his career as he joins one of the world’s top five leagues.

His former club, KAA Gent, where he made 92 appearances in official matches and scored four goals, bid farewell to the reliable centre-back on their website, commending him for his dedication and resilience, which contributed to their success in European football.

“Okumu has rendered great services to our club. Together with Ngadeu and Torunarigha, he formed a very strong defensive trio. Joseph felt ready to take the next step in his career and is pleased with his move to Reims. It is now up to us to find a suitable replacement,” stated Michel Louwagie, the CEO of KAA Gent.

Joseph ‘Crouch’ Okumu started his professional career with Kenyan club Chemelil Sugar before joining Swedish side IF Elfsborg. He then ventured outside the country and played for the South African club Free State Stars, but returned home after an unsuccessful stint. He later moved to the United States, representing Real Monarchs, before eventually landing at Elfsborg once again.

With his move to Reims, Okumu aspires to follow in the footsteps of former Harambee Stars captain Dennis Oliech, who made a name for himself playing in the French top tier with Auxerre and Nantes.

This significant transfer showcases Okumu’s determination and skill, as he now embraces new challenges and opportunities in the highly competitive world of French football.