Dutch side enter race for in-demand Michael Olunga

© Michael Olunga (Facebook)

STARS ABROAD Dutch side enter race for in-demand Michael Olunga

Imran Otieno • 07:53 - 07.06.2023

The former Gor Mahia forward is quickly becoming the most sought after striker in the world.

The transfer links circling Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga show little signs of abating after Dutch side FC Utrecht emerged as his next possible destination.

Olunga’s current contract at Qatari side Al Duhail expires on Friday, June 30 and after posting another stellar season laden with astronomical numbers, a number of clubs are jostling for his signature.

With Utrecht’s main striker, Tasos Douvikas - who netted an impressive 22 goals in 38 games this season- on his way to Scottish giants Celtic, the club is looking to replace the prolific forward.

According to reports emanating from the Netherlands, Utrecht have set their sights on Olunga who is more than capable of filling the mighty shoes left behind by Douvikas.

Former Sporting Lisbon and Eintracht Frankfurt forward Bas Dost is also expected to leave the Dutch side on a free transfer after the expiry of his contract.

The former Gor Mahia and Tusker FC forward is coming from another mind-boggling season where he banged 33 goals in 29 games for Al Duhail on their way to lifting their maiden league title since 2020.

The numbers have not flown under the radar as a host of clubs across the globe have expressed their interest in the 29-year-old including Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, Corinthians, and now Utretch.

The Qatari media are however reporting that Al Duhail are in talks with Olunga over a new improved contract but are yet to reach an agreement.

Olunga is expected to earn a bumper contract regardless of the side he joins as he will join on the Bosman Rule meaning that his next suitors will not spend a dime on transfer fees.

The 2021 AFC Champions League top scorer is currently in the country after a tour of Europe and is expected to link up with Harambee Stars ahead of the Four Nations Tournament.