As of 2025 Reims defender Joseph Okumu is the most expensive Kenyan footballer.
Harambee Stars defender Joseph Okumu is currently valued at €9 million (Ksh1.2 billion), making him the most valuable Kenyan player.
Since moving to French side Stade Reims ahead of the 2023-24 season, Okumu has established himself as a key figure in the Ligue 1 club’s defense.
His consistent performances and defensive prowess have attracted significant attention, further cementing his value in the football market.
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Joseph Okumu club career
Born on May 26, 1997, in Kisumu among the Luo community of Kenya, Okumu has developed into a formidable defender through his experiences in various leagues.
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Standing at 1.93 meters, his journey across different football divisions highlights his adaptability and growth.
Okumu started his professional career at Kenyan club Chemelil Sugar between 2014 and 2016, where he honed his defensive skills.
He then moved to South Africa’s Premier Division, signing for Free State Stars. During his time there, he made seven league appearances.
In 2018, Okumu transitioned to the United States, where he played eight matches for AFC Ann Arbor in the National Premier Soccer League.
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He later moved to the USL Championship side Real Monarchs, featuring in 12 games and strengthening the team’s defense.
In 2019, Okumu moved to Sweden’s IF Elfsborg, where he made 34 league appearances and played a crucial role in stabilizing their defense.
His transfer to Elfsborg was valued at €180,000 (Ksh26.6 million).
Okumu’s performances in Sweden earned him a move to Belgium’s Pro League club KAA Gent in 2021.
The transfer, worth €3.50 million (Ksh517 million), saw his market value soar.
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During his stint at Gent, Okumu played 61 matches, scored two goals, and participated in major European competitions, including the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Where is Joseph Okumu now?
Currently, Okumu plays for French Ligue 1 club Stade Reims.
He joined the club in the summer of 2023 in a €12 million (Ksh1.8 billion) transfer, making himone of the most expensive Kenyan footballer in history.
Since arriving at Reims, he has made 34 appearances and scored two goals, becoming an integral part of the team’s defensive setup.
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Joseph Okumu salary per week
Okumu’s impressive performances have earned him a lucrative contract at Stade Reims. He currently earns a gross salary of €19,231 (Ksh2.84 million) per week, excluding bonuses.
His contract, which runs until June 30, 2028, has an estimated gross salary of €4 million (Ksh592 million). For the 2024-2025 season alone, he is set to earn an estimated base salary of €1 million (Ksh148 million).
Joseph Okumu net worth
As of December 10, 2024, Okumu’s market value stood at €9 million (Ksh1.2 billion), according to Transfermarkt.
His steady rise in value is a testament to his growing reputation as one of Africa’s top defenders.
Since making his debut for the Kenyan national team in 2016, Okumu has earned 20 caps for Harambee Stars.
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He played a key role in Kenya’s participation at the Africa Cup of Nations, showcasing his defensive abilities on the continental stage.
Joseph Okumu’s career trajectory reflects his dedication, resilience, and consistent performances across multiple leagues.
From humble beginnings in Kenya to becoming the most expensive Kenyan footballer, Okumu continues to impress on both domestic and international fronts.
As he progresses in Ligue 1, his market value and reputation are expected to rise even further, solidifying his place among Africa’s elite defenders.
