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Coach Johnathan McKinstry has said it is very difficult for Gor Mahia to compete in the transfer market as it is now.

With the Football Kenya Federation Premier League January transfer window open, just like any other club, the giants are expected to strengthen their unit with new players.

However, head coach McKisntry feels that Gor Mahia may not get the players they need since the available ones are expensive and could be financially out of reach for them.

“Kenyan football has changed a lot. We know Gor went through a drought period, which we managed to rectify last season and this season.

“I was talking to a Ugandan player about potentially joining us at the end of the season, and he is currently playing in Uganda. But he has received offers from Rwanda for close to $5000 (Ksh800,000) and an offer from Tanzania for close to $8000 (Ksh1.2 million),” McKinstry said, as quoted by a local publication.

A few seasons ago, backed by strong financial sponsors, Gor Mahia were able to splash money and get their top targets. This made them a competitive outfit, as they dominated the local soccer scene and were regular participants in the CAF inter-club competitions.

Competition for talents

To McKinstry, the players that were then afforded could not be bought at the current market rates.

“So we simply can’t compete in the market if you think of the days we were able to sign the likes of Meddie Kagere and Jacques Tuyisenge. If that were today, we couldn’t afford them,” the former Uganda Cranes coach added.

With the hope of retaining the Premier League title, Gor Mahia are eager to return to the Champions League next season, and for them to compete, they will need a stronger playing unit.

Since regional rivals are eyeing the same players they want, K’Ogalo have no option but to grow their muscle to land top talents.