Harambee Stars goalkeeper Ian Otieno has landed in South Africa ahead of his move to Premier Soccer League (PSL) side Richards Bay FC, according to media reports.Otieno is set to leave Zambia’s Zesco United to join the PSL club as a free agent. The former Posta Rangers and AFC Leopards player was previously a target for Gor Mahia but has now agreed to a deal with Richards Bay.##NAJAVA_MECA_8213802##The seasoned custodian has been with Zesco United for the last four years, having joined the club in 2020 South African outlet FARPost reports that Otieno is currently in South Africa ahead of his move.At Richards Bay, he will compete for the starting position against Saalim Magoola, Malcom Jacobs, and Philasande Manqele. Otieno is set to replace Jackson Mabokgwane, who recently left the team.Sofapaka closing in on new shirt sponsorUnder the guidance of head coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi, the club has already resumed training in preparation for next season’s campaign, which kicks off in early August.Richards Bay secured their top-flight status in South Africa through the playoffs, where they faced AmaTuks and Baroka FC to maintain their Premiership position after a challenging season.The club has made five signings so far: Fezile Gcaba and Sbani Khumalo from KZN ABC Motsepe League side Mkhumbane Classic FC, along with Siyethemba Sithebe, Tlakusani Mthethwa, and Keegan Allan, who joined on free transfers after leaving their respective clubs.Richards Bay Football Club, located in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, was formed when Thanda Royal Zulu F.C. owner Pierre Delvaux sold the club’s league status to AmaZulu F.C. Football Kenya Federation unveils youth team registration requirements for Club LicensingAmaZulu had finished fifth in the 2016–17 National First Division, while Thanda Royal Zulu had secured automatic promotion by finishing first. AmaZulu purchased Thanda Royal Zulu’s position in the 2017–18 South African Premier Division.The club recently secured a sponsorship worth over KES 700 million from Phakwe Gas.Otieno might not be the only Kenyan goalkeeper heading to South Africa, as Tusker’s Brian Bwire is also close to joining Polokwane City FC.
