Tusker FC is facing a potential setback as one of their key players, striker Ryan Ogam, appears poised to make a move to the Algerian club USM Alger. The 21-year-old striker has enjoyed a breakout season with Tusker, making an impressive mark in the FKF Premier League by scoring 15 goals in just 14 matches. This goal-scoring form has placed Ogam at the top of the league’s scoring chart, and many hoped that he could be the catalyst to help propel Tusker to a league title in the second half of the season.
However, with his future now uncertain, Tusker’s aspirations for the remainder of the season are clouded. USM Alger has reportedly made a substantial offer for Ogam, which is said to be tempting enough for the player to consider a move. Sources close to the situation indicate that the deal is worth nearly Ksh 4 million, a significant sum that would benefit both the player and the club. Ogam’s parents are reportedly in favor of the move, which is likely to influence the striker’s decision.
Despite the appeal of the offer, there has been some external pressure for Ogam to wait until the end of the current season before making any major decisions about his future. There are suggestions that Ogam could attract interest from European clubs, which would offer him an even greater opportunity to further his career. However, the lure of a lucrative deal in North Africa may prove difficult to resist.
Ogam’s rise to prominence has been swift, given that this is his first season playing in the FKF Premier League. Having joined Tusker from Rainbow FC, he has quickly become an indispensable part of the squad. His performances have been instrumental in Tusker’s strong position in the league, as they sit joint top with Kenya Police, each with 36 points from 18 matches. With his rapid adaptation and natural goal-scoring instinct, Ogam’s departure would leave a considerable void in the team’s attacking setup.
Tusker has already experienced a blow in the transfer market earlier this month with the departure of midfielder Shaphan Siwa, who moved to Tanzanian side Kagera Sugar after his contract expired in December. Siwa had been another key player for Tusker, contributing nine assists and scoring one goal before his departure. Losing two influential players in such a short time would undoubtedly be a challenge for head coach Charles Okere, who has relied heavily on Ogam and Siwa to deliver the club’s offensive output.
Ogam’s potential departure to USM Alger is not the first time the Algerian club has shown interest in a Kenyan striker during the midseason transfer window. In January 2024, USM Alger came close to signing Benson Omala from Gor Mahia, but that move ultimately fell through at the last minute. The club’s continued interest in Kenyan forwards suggests that they are keen on strengthening their attacking options, and Ogam would certainly fit the bill.
For Tusker, the loss of Ogam would represent a significant challenge, but it could also open the door for other players to step up and take on a more prominent role in the squad. While the club would be sad to see one of their brightest talents leave, they will also understand that moves like this are often a natural progression for players with immense potential. The deal would undoubtedly bring financial benefits to Tusker, allowing them to reinvest in the squad for the future.
The timing of Ogam’s potential move could also work in Tusker’s favor, as they would have time to search for a suitable replacement before the end of the current season. With the league still wide open, the club will be hoping that their remaining players can rise to the occasion and continue their push for the title, regardless of Ogam’s future. However, losing such a prolific striker midway through the season would be a tough blow to overcome, especially with the pressure of maintaining a title challenge.
As the transfer window continues, all eyes will remain on Ogam and his potential move to USM Alger. Should the deal go through, it will be a significant step in the young striker’s career, but it will also be a tough loss for Tusker FC as they look to finish the season on a high note. Whether Ogam ultimately makes the move to Algeria or decides to hold out for a European opportunity, it is clear that his future is one to watch in the coming weeks.
