Celta Vigo confirm signing of Kenyan midfielder Aldrine Kibet on four-year deal

Kenya U20 midfielder Aldrine Kibet is now a Celta Vigo player [Canteira Celeste]

LaLiga side Celta Vigo have confirmed the signing of Kenyan U20 midfielder Aldrine Kibet on a four-year deal.

In a transfer reportedly worth EUR6 million (Sh 900 million) the attacking midfielder will initially link up with Celta Fortuna, the club's ambitious reserve team, as part of a pathway designed to fasttrack his progression to the senior squad.

Kibet's ascent has been rapid. Playing in the 2023 Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) finals, he captained St. Anthony's to the national title, walked away with both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award and the Golden Boot, and finished the campaign with a remarkable 25 goals and 27 assists.

His talent caught the eye of former Harambee Stars midfielder David Kenga, who recommended him to Spain's Nastic Sports Academy-an affiliate of thirdtier outfit Gimnastic de Tarragona.

Kenya U20 midfielder Aldrine Kibet is now a Celta Vigo player [Canteira Celeste]

Months later, Celta's scouts-always keen on nurturing young talent-moved quickly. The Galician club, founded in 1923 and famous for its vibrant Estadio Municipal de Balaidos atmosphere, has never lifted La Liga or the Copa del Rey despite three appearances in the cup final.

Kibet's parents left Nairobi with their son, eager to witness him sign professional terms in Spain's northwest. The youngster, who only turned 18 in May, appears to be ready for the challenge.