- Manchester City are tracking emerging Kenyan full-back Paul Ochuoga
- Rival ownership groups are also in the race for 21-year-old
- A summer move to Europe is being lined up for the Gori Mahia star
Manchester City are positioning themselves to sign an emerging African talent ahead of the summer window, as per reports.
With the transfer window in sight, multiple European clubs are pushing operations hard in emerging markets to bolster their ranks ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
Africa has turned out to be one of the biggest talent factories in world football for years now, with top clubs from Europe hoarding multiple scout networks on the continent.
Manchester City Transfer Tracker: Live Updates on Signings, Contracts and Loans
Following the trend, club owners City Football Group have found themselves a gem in the east African market as Manchester City director of football Hugo Viana maps the club’s plans for the upcoming transfer window.
Report: CFG tracking Kenyan full-back Paul Ochuoga
As reported by journalist Graeme Bailey, Manchester City’s owners – the City Football Group – are leading the race to sign Gor Mahia full-back Paul Ochuoga.
The holding company, however, isn’t alone in their pursuits. Chelsea owners BlueCo are also monitoring the defender, alongside the Red Bull football network.
Premier League duo Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford are also in the race as both clubs have extensive scouting networks in Africa.
Ochuoga has come through the Gor Mahia academy and started gaining European attraction following his stellar performances in the CAF Champions League.
With foreign interests growing stronger, Gor Mahia decided to tie down the defender with a contract extension earlier this year.
Revealed: Manchester City plan to bolster two key positions in summer transfer window
Spain or Italy to be Ochuoga’s first destination
A direct push to the Premier League isn’t expected. CFG plans to first test him out in one of their other European projects.
The football group has a majority stake in the Serie B club Palermo, which can serve as a great starting point for the 21-year-old talent.
Girona is also an option with the club continuing to maintain their spot in the Spanish top flight for four seasons straight.
