Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy ‘Babu’ Ouma has officially joined Polish champions Lech Poznań on a one-year loan deal from Czech club Slavia Prague, in a move aimed at strengthening the club’s midfield ahead of a congested season.
The loan agreement, signed on Friday, July 18, does not include a purchase option and is valid until June 30, 2026. The 21-year-old Kenyan, who has nine international caps, completed his medical with Poznań just hours before their opening league clash against KS Cracovia.
“Timothy Ouma was loaned by us for a year from Slavia without an option to buy. We wanted to react and secure our middle formation, bearing in mind that Radosław Murawski dropped out of the preparation period due to health reasons,” said Lech Poznań Sporting Director Tomasz Rząsa.
From Nairobi to Poznań: A Rising Career
Ouma began his professional career at Nairobi City Stars before making a high-profile move to IF Elfsborg in Sweden in 2022. There, he featured in 13 Europa League qualifiers and group-stage matches, becoming the first Kenyan to score and assist in the competition, notably against Dutch side AZ Alkmaar on September 25, 2024.
His stellar European campaign caught the eye of Slavia Prague, who signed him for KSh472 million in January 2025. However, he made only one league appearance for the Czech champions during his six-month stint, prompting a temporary move for more game time.
“I play mainly as a defensive midfielder. I can’t wait to get to know my teammates and the whole club better. I’ve seen videos of packed stadiums here, and I’ll do everything to show my best side for these wonderful fans,” Ouma said in his first statement after being unveiled.
Reinforcements Amid Squad Crisis
Ouma’s transfer comes as Poznań grapples with multiple midfield injuries, including the sidelining of Murawski. The club hopes Ouma’s aggressive ball-winning style and forward vision will bolster their midfield stability.
“He is a defensive midfielder who is very effective in duels in defense and aggressive in receiving the ball. But he also has the ability to play forward after an interception,” Rząsa added.
His prior UEFA Europa League experience with Elfsborg makes him a valuable addition as Poznań prepares for UEFA Champions League qualifiers.
More Kenyan Presence in Poland
Ouma now joins compatriot Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma, who plays for Raków Częstochowa, the runners-up in last season’s Polish league. His agent, Timothy Mork, confirmed the deal, posing with the player after signing.
“Timothy Ouma presented as Lech Poznań’s new signing. The Kenyan midfielder comes on loan from Slavia Prague. Good luck in Ekstraklasa, Timo!” Mork posted on social media.
Although Ouma was not fielded in Lech’s 4-1 loss to Cracovia, he watched from the stands and is expected to be registered soon for both domestic and continental competitions.
He will wear the number 6 jersey at the club.
