Kenyan Winger Ayub Timbe Signs For The Royals

Beijing Renhe winger Ayub Timbe has signed for the Royals, in what looks to be a shrewd signing for Mark Bowen’s side. The 27-year-old Kenyan has put pen to paper on a loan deal lasting until the end of the season, while fellow winger Mo Barrow continues to make his mark in Turkey with top division side Denizlispor.

Timbe is no stranger to Europe, having played for Belgian sides KRC Genk and Lierse, whilst also featuring for the Kenyan national team on numerous occasions. He was reportedly set to join the Royals last January, although that deal never went through in the end.

Reading owner Dai Yongge is a majority shareholder of Beijing Renhe, where Sone Aluko spent most of 2019. However, it’s clear that the move did not work out for the Nigerian. Let’s hope Timbe has a much more successful spell here in Berkshire, in which he’ll be looking to make an impact from now until the end of the season.

If this move works out well, the owner could be instrumental in securing the permanent signing of the Kenyan. If his appearances at Genk (and their European credentials) are anything to go by, this could be a real steal for the Royals in the summer.

Timbe will be competing with Garath McCleary, Michael Olise and Sone Aluko for a place on the wing, although the trio have all failed to nail down a regular starting spot. Although Ovie Ejaria, Lucas Boye and Yakou Meite are other options for Bowen, they have shown that they thrive in central positions as opposed to being on the wing.

According to GetReading, both Felipe Araruna and Timbe had their medicals on Thursday afternoon ahead of their moves to the Madejski Stadium, while the search for a striker continues.

The Royals have until 11pm on Friday night to complete any other transfers they wish to secure.