Kenyan football giants Gor Mahia FC are yet to parade their new Ugandan forward Mohamed Shaban Jagason, with a contractual standoff over his signing fee forcing the striker to return home before making a competitive appearance.
The record FKF Premier League champions all but finalized the acquisition of the Uganda Cranes star late in the transfer window after prising him from Libyan side Al Anwar. Expectations were high that he would add bite to their frontline, but barely had he trained a handful of times with the squad when he suddenly vanished from camp.
Supporters were left puzzled as Jagason skipped training sessions, missed pre-season friendlies, and was nowhere to be seen in the season opener against Bidco United, a clash K’Ogalo lost 1-0. Fans lamented his absence, arguing he could have provided the cutting edge sorely missing on the day.
According to Mozzart Sport, the striker’s disappearance is tied to a dispute over his signing bonus. Jagason was reportedly promised a $30,000 (approx. KSh 4 million) payout upon putting pen to paper. However, when he arrived in Nairobi, he was offered just $10,000 (around KSh 1.3 million), with assurances that the balance would follow later.
The forward refused outright, insisting the deal was to be honored in full and upfront.
“There was a clear agreement before he came to Kenya that the money was to be paid in one installment. That changed when he arrived, as he was only offered a third of the amount with a promise that the rest would be paid later. This had not been discussed earlier, and he felt shortchanged, so he refused the new arrangement and returned to Uganda. Until Gor Mahia fulfills their side of the bargain, he will not return to Kenya,” a source close to the player told Mozzart Sport.
Inside sources at Gor Mahia acknowledge the impasse but insist negotiations are ongoing.
“It is an issue we are working on, trying to find the best solution for both parties. I believe it is only a matter of time before we have a breakthrough. Both sides want the matter resolved, which makes it easier to find common ground,” a club official, speaking anonymously, explained to Mozzart Sport.
Shaban’s highly anticipated debut is on ice, with fans anxiously waiting to see if Gor Mahia can resolve the payment row and get their new striker back in Nairobi.
