Kenyan international defender Joseph Okumu is among four high-profile players expected to leave Stade de Reims this summer following the club’s relegation from Ligue 1. Reims’ drop to the French second division has forced the club into a financial shake-up, opening the door for the departure of several of their key assets.
Okumu, 27, joined Reims from Belgian side KAA Gent in July 2023 in a deal reportedly worth €10 million. Despite struggling with injuries throughout the season, the towering center-back featured prominently in the squad, amassing 2,198 minutes across 28 matches. This included 22 Ligue 1 appearances, four in the Coupe de France, and both legs of the relegation playoffs.
While Reims fell short in their bid to retain top-flight status, Okumu remained one of the club’s most valuable players. He is currently valued at €9 million, and his performances when fit have drawn renewed interest from top European clubs. Notably, there have been strong links to Serie A giants, with reports previously indicating advanced discussions between the defender’s representatives and a major Italian side. A transfer fee in the region of €15 million has been floated, potentially giving Reims a slight profit on their initial investment.
The defender’s European journey has been a remarkable one, beginning at Chemelil Sugar in Kenya, before spells in Sweden and Belgium paved the way for his move to France. With 23 caps for the Kenyan national team, Okumu is widely regarded as one of East Africa’s top defensive talents. His composure on the ball, aerial dominance, and positional awareness have made him a target for clubs aiming to bolster their backline with both youth and experience.
In a recent interview, Okumu hinted at his desire to compete at the highest level, suggesting that his long-term aspirations are aligned with moving to a more competitive league. His ambition, coupled with Reims’ relegation, makes a transfer this summer almost inevitable.
Joining Okumu on the potential exit list are three other Reims players: goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf, young midfielder Valentin Atangana, and Japanese winger Keito Nakamura. Diouf, despite conceding 40 goals in 26 league appearances, remains on the radar of several clubs. Atangana, just 19, has shown significant promise and may be sold despite recently extending his contract. Nakamura, the most valuable player in the squad, has been closely watched by top French and Italian clubs.
As the summer transfer window progresses, Okumu’s next move will be closely monitored oth for its impact on his career and for what it could mean for the Kenyan national team’s future.
