Ian Otieno: Details revealed on Harambee Stars goalkeeper's move to South Africa Premier Soccer League club

Ian Otieno celebrates after making a save in a past match for Zesco United.

Ian Otieno: Details revealed on Harambee Stars goalkeeper's move to South Africa Premier Soccer League club

Festus Chuma 17:15 - 09.07.2024

The former AFC Leopards custodian is set to join Richards Bay becoming their second Kenyan player after Ovella Ochieng in 2023.

Harambee Stars goalkeeper Ian Otieno is on the brink of joining South Africa's Premier Soccer League (PSL) side Richards Bay.

Currently playing for Zambian Super League side Zesco United, Otieno's imminent move has stirred excitement among football fans and analysts alike.

The Kenyan international has been a vital player for Zesco United, having joined them five years ago from another Zambian club Red Arrows.

During his tenure, Otieno has competed with former PSL goalkeepers Toaster Nsabata and Mwenya Chibwe for the number one spot, showcasing his exceptional skills and consistency.

"Ian will be joining Richards Bay on a two-year deal. He had a good season with Zesco as they challenged for the league and they finished second," a source told GOAL, confirming the terms of the contract.

This move to Richards Bay is seen as a strategic step for both Otieno and the club as they prepare for the 2024/25 season.

Richards Bay successfully retained their PSL status after winning last month's promotion/relegation playoffs.

The club is now focused on strengthening their squad to avoid another relegation battle in the upcoming campaign.

A regular in the Kenya national team squads Otieno has been a prominent figure in East and Southern African football.

His journey with Zesco United saw him win the 2020/21 Zambian Super League title and participate in the 2022/23 CAF Confederation Cup campaign, where Zesco faced Royal AM.

Moreover, he was part of the Kenya squad that triumphed in a four-nation tournament in Malawi in March adding another accolade to his impressive career.

The former AFC Leopards gloves man is set to join a Richards Bay team that is not only keen on retaining its PSL status but also ambitious in its quest to climb higher in the league standings.

Alongside Otieno the club is expected to confirm the signing of several other notable players including former Kaizer Chiefs star Siyethembe Sithebe, ex-Moroka Swallows midfield maestro Tlakusani Mthethwa, and defender Keegan Allan, recently released by SuperSport United.