LEOPARD ON THE MOVE: AFC to cash in on Kimani's move to Saudi Arabia

Kenyan Premier League (KPL) giants AFC Leopards have reaped big from the sale of midfielder Kevin Kimani to Saudi Arabian top flight side Al-Hazem SC.

This comes barely a week after the Kenyan international penned a one-year deal with Ingwe on the January transfer window deadline day.

Sources privy to the deal revealed to Feverpitch that AFC Leopards will receive an estimated Sh1.5m in transfer fees from the ex-Mathare United and Tusker player’s move to Asia.

The former KPL of the Year, who was due to depart for Saudi Arabia yesterday, has been offered a lucrative short-term (six month) contract by the Ar Rass-based club.

AFC Leopards Chief Executive Officer Ronald Namai hailed the move terming it as a ‘win-win situation’.

“It is a win-win situation for both parties.

“Kimani was not among our top transfer targets, but when the opportunity came we grabbed it.

“He is a talented player that will definitely be missed, but we have perfect replacement,” said Namai. “Due to some reasons, I cannot reveal the figures, but just know we will be paid some good money. We can still consider him in future depending on his availability, form and performance.

“This is just but one of our objective which is to expose players and make more income in return.

“We want all our players to think beyond playing for AFC Leopards.

“As a club we are happy for him and wish him all the best at his new club,” he added.

On his part, Kimani, who has been club-less for the last one year after his protracted move to South Africa’s Jomo Cosmos fell through in 2016, is eager to return to competitive football with Al-Hazem SC.

“I am happy to be joining a new team which I believe will offer me a fresh challenge. Although I have not lasted at AFC Leopards, I thank them for believing in me.

“I am looking forward to enjoying myself at my new club,” said Kimani moments before departing.