Harambee Stars defender Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma has recently attracted significant attention from European clubs, with Kazakhstan giants FK Astana making a substantial bid to acquire his services. However, his current club, Rakow Czestochowa of Poland, has rejected the offer, holding out for a higher transfer fee.
Astana reportedly submitted a €1.7 million bid to Rakow Czestochowa for Ouma during the January transfer window. Despite the substantial offer, the Polish club declined, demanding €2.5 million instead. The potential move has placed Ouma under the spotlight, underscoring his growing reputation as a key player in European football.
Ouma joined Rakow Czestochowa from Swedish club AIK before the start of the 2023-24 season for a reported €700,000. Since then, he has established himself as a valuable asset for the Polish side, delivering impressive performances over the past one-and-a-half years. This season, the left-back has made 18 appearances in all competitions, scoring one goal and providing three assists. His contributions have been instrumental in Rakow’s strong campaign, where they currently sit second in the Polish top flight, just two points behind leaders Lech Poznan.
Despite facing some injury challenges during the 2023-24 season, Ouma managed to feature in 12 matches for Rakow, showcasing his resilience and determination. His market value has since risen significantly, with recent estimates placing it at €850,000. This valuation highlights his status as one of Kenya’s most valuable footballers and underpins Rakow’s reluctance to part with him for less than their desired fee.
Astana’s interest in Ouma reflects his growing appeal on the international stage. The club, which has won the Kazakh league seven times, regularly competes in the UEFA Champions League, offering players the chance to showcase their talents on one of football’s biggest stages. A move to Astana could represent a significant step forward in Ouma’s career, providing him with opportunities to compete at a higher level and gain greater exposure.
However, Rakow’s stance indicates their determination to retain Ouma as they pursue domestic success. The club is deeply involved in the title race and views the Kenyan defender as a crucial component of their squad. Losing him mid-season could disrupt their momentum and weaken their chances of clinching the league title.
Astana’s next move remains uncertain. While their initial offer was rejected, they may return with an improved bid to secure Ouma’s signature. For now, the speculation surrounding the transfer has amplified interest in the player, further elevating his profile in European football.
Ouma’s journey from his early days in Kenya to becoming a key figure in Rakow Czestochowa’s squad is a testament to his hard work and talent. As one of the most prominent Kenyan footballers in Europe, his performances continue to inspire fans and aspiring players back home. Whether he remains in Poland or makes the leap to Kazakhstan, Ouma’s future promises to be a compelling story to follow.
