Belgian Pro League club Royal Antwerp FC have officially opened negotiations to sign Ugandan international Allan Okello, the attacking midfielder and assistant captain of Vipers SC, as per Africa Foot.
Regarded by many as the best player in Uganda this season, Okello has attracted attention from multiple clubs, including Simba SC (Tanzania) and Pyramids FC (Egypt). However, it is Royal Antwerp who have made the first formal approach for the 24-year-old.
Royal Antwerp Make First Move
According to a Vipers club source, Royal Antwerp have inquired about Okello’s contract situation and expressed serious interest in sealing the deal ahead of the 2024 summer transfer window. The attacking midfielder’s current contract with Vipers runs until June 2026.
“The interest from Royal Antwerp is a serious one, and they’re willing to go all the way,” the source confirmed. “They also want to make the deal as swift as possible, as they want to fend off any possible opposition in the way.”
The source added that Vipers have placed a price tag of over €300,000 (about UGX 1.2 billion) on Okello—who is widely expected to be named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2024/25 Uganda Premier League season.
“The only challenge right now is that we [Vipers] don’t want distractions around the player at this point, as he is the main talisman in the chase for both the Uganda Premier League and Uganda Cup. But Antwerp are willing to meet the asking fee of €300,000.”
Okello’s Outstanding 2024/25 Season
Okello has been the standout player in Uganda this season. He currently leads the UPL top scorers’ chart with 18 goals and 4 assists in 27 appearances.
He has also contributed 3 more goals across the Super 8 tournament and Uganda Cup, cementing his reputation as the most impactful player in domestic competition.
Career Profile and Transfer History
Before joining Vipers, Okello played for KCCA FC, where he amassed an impressive record of 39 goals and 42 assists in 119 games. He also had a stint with Algerian top-flight side Paradou AC, gaining valuable international club experience.
His Transfermarkt valuation currently stands at €250,000, though that figure could rise based on his recent form and growing interest across Africa and Europe.
Uganda Cranes Contributor
On the international stage, Okello has been a regular presence in the Uganda Cranes since making his senior debut in 2019. He has earned 23 competitive caps, scoring 4 goals and providing 8 assists. He played a key role in helping Uganda qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, reinforcing his importance to both club and country.
