The Kenyan international tops AS Roma's defensive shortlist as the club aims to strengthen their squad and compete with Inter Milan.
Harambee Stars defender Joseph Okumu has risen to the top of AS Roma's shortlist of signings to reinforce at the back.
This is according to Thursday's online edition of Milan-based newspaper newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via Roma Press.
![Joseph Okumu features in pre-season friendly for Reims amidst AS Roma interest](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/24072024/973f1267-821f-4110-80c3-32941e742cef.jpeg?operations=fit(180:))
19:03 - 24.07.2024
Joseph Okumu features in pre-season friendly for Reims amidst AS Roma interest
The Harambee Stars defender has been linked with a move to Serie A giants AS Roma but is part of the Reims set-up for their pre-season tour in Japan.
Potentially the last major signing Roma will make this summer will be for a central defender.
The Nerazzurri had been on the verge of sealing a deal for Bayern Munich defender Eric Dier last week.
However, that deal fell through, leaving Roma back to square one in their search for a defensive reinforcement.
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10:17 - 12.07.2024
Joseph Okumu’s representatives provide update over his future following AS Roma links
Joseph Okumu’s camp has commented on the Harambee Stars defender’s future after his rumoured links to Serie A club AS Roma.
Despite this setback, the profile that the Yellow and Reds are aiming to sign remains unchanged.
Joseph Okumu, the 27-year-old defender currently playing for French Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims, has garnered significant attention due to his impressive performances.
Okumu has good experience and could be deemed a reliable backup for Roma's starting defenders.
![Harambee Stars midfielder Richard Odada cleared to join Scottish side](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/25072024/a8dc275c-8838-43e4-83ed-ec952cfcfef7.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
07:24 - 26.07.2024
Harambee Stars midfielder Richard Odada cleared to join Scottish side
The AFC Leopards Youth team graduate is set to join Dundee United after receiving clearance from the Scottish FA and securing his work permit.
His consistent displays have made him an appealing target for Roma, who are looking to spend €15 million (Ksh2.1 billion) to secure his services.
In addition to Okumu, Roma is also monitoring 19-year-old Christian Mawissa from Toulouse. Mawissa, born in 2005, represents a younger and less experienced profile but with greater growth prospects.
Roma will have the opportunity to observe Mawissa closely in an upcoming friendly match against Toulouse.
The young Frenchman is valued at around €10 million by his current club, and Roma's interest signals their intent to invest in future talent as well.
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19:57 - 25.07.2024
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However, Roma or any other interested club will need to increase their offer to convince Reims to sell Okumu.
Reims acquired Okumu for €12 million (Ksh1.7 billion) from Belgian club KAA Gent last summer, and with three years remaining on his four-year contract, the French club is not keen on losing one of their key players on the cheap.
Okumu's journey to the top of Roma's shortlist is a testament to his growing reputation in European football.
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He featured in 21 Ligue 1 matches for Reims last season, scoring one goal and showcasing his defensive prowess.
Before his move to Reims, Okumu had attracted interest from clubs in Germany, England, and France.
Roma's pursuit of Okumu reflects their ambition to strengthen their squad as they aim to compete at the highest level.
The Italian giants are keen to catch up with Inter Milan next season and securing a solid defender like Okumu could be a crucial step in achieving that goal.
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