Kenya international Zech Obiero has taken the next step in his career after sealing a temporary move to English League Two side Tranmere Rovers.
The 21-year-old midfielder has joined the Prenton Park outfit on loan from League One club Leyton Orient, with the agreement covering the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign. The move aims to give Obiero increased exposure to senior football as he continues to develop within the English football system.
Obiero will remain with Tranmere Rovers from Monday, February 2, 2026, until Sunday, May 31, 2026, after which he is set to return to his parent club. The arrangement does not include a purchase clause, confirming that the transfer is purely a development-focused loan.
So far this season, the central midfielder has made eight appearances for Leyton Orient, gradually earning opportunities at the first-team level after rising through the club’s youth structure.
Obiero joined Orient’s academy at just 14 years old after leaving Tottenham Hotspur and went on to sign his first professional contract in 2022. Since then, he has gained valuable match experience during loan spells at non-League sides Cheshunt and Chelmsford City.
Obiero speaks
Speaking after completing the switch, Obiero explained that consistent playing time was the key factor behind his decision.
“I’m really happy to be here, excited to start a new journey and just ready to get going. I would say I’m more attacking-minded. I do like to work hard. I do like to track back. But more going forward, I dribble and get goals and assists. That’s more my game,” Obiero said.
Leyton Orient head coach Andy Crosby backed the move, emphasising the importance of regular match action for the young midfielder.
Crosby’s sentiments
“We’re really pleased to bring Zech in. He’s a young player with potential and a fantastic attitude. He’s technically good, plays with energy and bravery. We believe this is the perfect environment for him to continue his development, and we’re excited to help him take the next step in his career,” the tactician said.
Tranmere Rovers have also expressed confidence in Obiero’s ability to strengthen their midfield options as they head into the business end of the season. The club highlighted his technical quality, energy, and mindset as attributes well-suited to League Two football.
Obiero, who stands at 1.70 metres, primarily operates in central midfield but describes himself as attack-minded, enjoying driving forward with the ball and contributing goals and assists while still doing his defensive work.
Currently valued at around €75,000, he is eligible to represent both Kenya and England but remains a key prospect for Kenya’s U20 side. As he begins his loan spell at Tranmere Rovers, Obiero will be eager to make his mark, knowing that strong performances could play a decisive role in shaping his future when he returns to Leyton Orient at the end of the season.
Obiero joins Collins Sichenje, who has also secured a big move in the January 2026 transfer window.
