Congolese striker Katulondi Kati nearing move to Russian League this summer

Congolese striker Katulondi Kati is on the verge of finalising a transfer to Russia, marking the next chapter in his professional football career after previous stints in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Morocco.

The 25-year-old centre forward, currently under contract with Moroccan side Hassania d’Agadir, is reportedly deep in negotiations with an undisclosed Russian club.

While the identity of the club remains confidential, talks are said to be progressing steadily, with a deal expected to be completed in the coming weeks.

Kati, whose current deal with Hassania is set to run until June 30, 2025, has become a sought-after talent after a productive spell in Morocco’s Botola Pro league.

According to football data site Transfermarkt, the player is currently valued at €450,000 — a figure that reflects his steady rise in value since moving to North Africa.

This season, Kati has featured prominently for Hassania d’Agadir, making 30 appearances across all competitions. His contributions include eight goals and four assists, underlining his importance to the team’s attacking setup.

His performances have not gone unnoticed, drawing attention from clubs beyond Morocco, with Russian interest now close to being translated into a formal agreement.

Kati began his professional journey in his homeland, where he turned out for the Dauphins Noirs and later DC Motema Pembe, two of the DRC’s more recognised football institutions.

His move to Hassania d’Agadir in August 2022 marked his first foray into international club football, a transition he has handled with relative ease.

In Morocco, he quickly adapted to the demands of the domestic league, earning a reputation as a dynamic forward capable of contributing both in goal-scoring and build-up play.

Though not a prolific scorer, his physical presence and work rate have made him a key asset for his side.

His likely switch to the Russian Premier League signals a significant step forward in his career. The league, known for its physical style and competitive intensity, could offer Kati a platform to further showcase his abilities on a new stage.

While the exact terms of the potential deal remain under wraps, sources indicate that all parties are optimistic about reaching a conclusion before the opening of the summer transfer window.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation from either Hassania d’Agadir or any Russian club. However, the signs point to Kati donning a new jersey before the start of the 2025 season.

If completed, the move would continue a growing trend of African talent finding opportunities in Eastern Europe, particularly Russia, which has increasingly scouted talent from across the continent in recent years.

Kati’s camp has remained tight-lipped about the developments, but the momentum behind the transfer suggests that an announcement could be imminent. For now, supporters and observers alike await official word as one of DRC’s emerging talents prepares for his next big leap.