Reports in Tanzania have stated that Vipers have blocked a potential mid-season move for striker Allan Okello after it emerged that the forward remains under a long term contract with the Ugandan champions.
The Tanzania Mainland Premier League holders Young Africans had identified Okello as a priority signing during the mini transfer window, but the move stalled once it became clear Vipers were not in a position to release the player.
Sources familiar with the talks say Okello’s existing deal with Vipers has time to run, making a transfer during the current registration window unrealistic despite early contacts with the player’s representatives.
According to Tanzanian media outlet The Citizen, a reliable source within Yanga said they cannot recruit Okello in this mini window due to his long running contract with his club. The source added that the club could return in the June – July registration window as they look at alternatives after the Okello deal hit a snag.
Okello remains a central figure at Kitende, where he has been a regular starter and a key part of Vipers’ domestic and continental ambitions.
His continued presence also reinforces the club’s position as they push to defend their league title and manage a congested second half of the season.
The former KCCA forward is also an important member of the Uganda Cranes setup, and Vipers’ decision to retain him underlines their intent to keep their core squad intact rather than cash in mid campaign.
With the door closed on Okello for now, Yanga have moved on and already signed striker Emmanuel Mwanengo from TRA United.
