SuperSport United defender Ime Okon is taking a significant step in his burgeoning career as he heads to Ukraine for a trial with Dynamo Kyiv.
The 20-year-old is eager to make his first move to Europe, with Dynamo Kyiv offering him the opportunity to prove himself during the trial, which could result in an immediate contract offer.
Okon left South Africa over the weekend to join the Ukrainian giants, who are currently leading the Ukrainian Premier League after 17 matches and also competing in the UEFA Europa League.
This is not the first time Okon has caught the eye of clubs abroad. The center-back has previously attracted interest from teams in England, Belgium, and Denmark, but none of these potential transfers came to fruition.
SABC Sport can reveal SuperSport United defender Ime Okon has been invited by Dynamo Kyiv for trials with the option to sign the player immediately.
SABC Sport’s @superjourno #SABCSportFootball
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) January 6, 2025
His trial at Dynamo Kyiv marks a crucial point in his career, which has been on the rise since he was promoted to SuperSport United’s senior team for the 2023/24 season.
Under the guidance of head coach Gavin Hunt, Okon quickly established himself as a regular starter, making 33 appearances in his debut campaign.
READ MORE:Nora Häuptle: Can Zambia’s new coach conquer WAFCON 2024?
His solid performances earned him a call-up to South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana, by coach Hugo Broos, although he has yet to make his international debut.
“Playing for Bafana, it’s been a dream, it’s a big thing, my mom always said, ‘one day Bafana Bafana!’
SuperSport United defender Ime Okon admits that his dream is to play for Bafana Bafana, a dream his mom wants fulfilled. pic.twitter.com/ZZoxWaI1mV
— iDiski Times (@iDiskiTimes) November 17, 2024
Okon’s international future is still up in the air, as he is eligible to play for both South Africa and Nigeria. While he has been involved with South Africa’s national team, a move to Ukraine and the chance to join Nigeria’s rebuilding Super Eagles could sway his decision.