AIK’s football director, Thomas Bernsten, has confirmed the club’s readiness to let Erick ‘Marcelo’ Otieno, the Kenyan left back, move on amidst growing interest from Premier League clubs.
Bernsten disclosed that AIK wouldn’t hinder Otieno’s transfer if a suitable offer is presented this winter. Otieno, previously with Gor Mahia, has been a subject of transfer speculation in recent years, yet remained with AIK.
However, Bernsten indicated a change in stance, acknowledging that Otieno might play for a different team next year. He expressed awareness of the impact this news might have on AIK fans, especially since Otieno has a year left in his contract. The director recalled Otieno’s near-departures in past transfer windows and his decision to stay last summer to fulfill his contract obligations in the Allsvenskan.
Bernsten also mentioned a promise made to Otieno last summer: if a good offer came, the club would not obstruct his transfer, acknowledging Otieno’s loyalty to AIK.
In 2021, interest from clubs like Leicester, Manchester City, and Brighton was reported. Otieno’s agent, Jamal Ibrahim, confirmed significant interest from abroad, with inquiries from top European leagues to others. Ibrahim noted ongoing discussions with AIK, who were even then open to selling Otieno, dependent on the appropriateness of the offers received.
