The former Nairobi City Stars player has reportedly caught the attention of Brentford and Luton Town scouts during his Europa League debut for Swedish club Elfsborg against AZ Alkmaar, where he impressively scored and provided an assist.
Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy “Babu” Ouma is on the verge of making history by potentially becoming the second Kenyan to play in the prestigious English Premier League, fueled by increasing interest from Brentford.
Since transferring from Nairobi City Stars to Swedish club IF Elfsborg in August 2022, Ouma has thrived and attracted significant attention in recent transfer windows, making him a sought-after player in European football.
According to a report from The Sun, Brentford, managed by Thomas Frank, has shown notable interest in the talented midfielder, alongside Championship team Luton Town, which is also eager to acquire his services. Renowned journalist Alan Nixon confirmed this news, stating:
“Premier League club Brentford and Championship team Luton show interest in Timothy Ouma and are said to have scouted him during the match against AZ Alkmaar.”
Both clubs sent scouts to observe Ouma during Elfsborg’s thrilling 3-2 defeat against the Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. The scouts were reportedly impressed with his dynamic performance in midfield, fueling speculation about his future.
Elfsborg turned down a substantial offer of SEK 60 million (approximately Ksh 679 million) for Ouma during the recently concluded transfer window, signaling the club’s intent to retain their prized asset, at least for the time being.
If Ouma manages to secure a move to Brentford, he would follow in the footsteps of fellow Kenyan Victor Wanyama, who previously played for both Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton in the Premier League. Wanyama enjoyed a seven-year stint in England, and Ouma could soon become Kenya’s next top football export to the EPL.
Ouma’s transfer saga has been filled with tension. The midfielder allegedly refused to train in protest after Elfsborg turned down offers for him, causing him to miss the Harambee Stars’ international fixture against Zimbabwe in September.
The frustration from Ouma’s camp arose from the club’s refusal to accept a lucrative offer, leaving him eager for new opportunities.
Reports from Sweden indicate that Serie A side Empoli had also expressed serious interest in signing the Kenyan international. However, a potential deal with the Italian club fell through as both teams could not agree on a transfer fee, leaving Ouma’s future uncertain for now.
Despite these challenges, Ouma has maintained professionalism, continuing to deliver impressive performances on the pitch. After starting his career at Elfsborg in the junior ranks, he has successfully progressed to the first team, delivering a stellar start to the season with one goal in 18 appearances thus far.
Timothy Ouma’s current contract with Elfsborg runs until the summer of 2026, giving the Swedish club considerable leverage in determining his future. However, with both Brentford and Luton Town showing interest and potential bids looming, Elfsborg may be tempted to reevaluate their position in upcoming transfer windows.
An additional factor that could work in Ouma’s favor is goalkeeper Hákon Rafn Valdimarsson, who joined Brentford from Elfsborg in January. Valdimarsson’s positive experience at the Premier League club might provide an indirect boost for Ouma, potentially facilitating his pathway to the English top flight.
If Timothy Ouma’s dream move to Brentford or Luton Town comes to fruition, he would solidify his place in Kenyan football history as only the second player to feature in the English Premier League. The future looks bright for the 20-year-old, and his determination to compete at the highest level could soon lead to a new chapter in his already promising career.
