Roma add Okumu, Mawissa to defenders shortlist

Roma are looking to bring in at least one more defensive reinforcement before the end of the summer.

Given Chris Smalling’s uncertain future and scarce physical condition, the Giallorossi wish to secure one additional centreback on the market.

Today’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Roma’s attention is on two profiles in Ligue 1.

Roma sporting director Florent Ghisolfi is said to be monitoring Reims defender Joseph Okumu (27 years old) and Toulouse’s Christian Mawissa (19 years old).

Okumu has good experience and could be deemed a good backup for the starters.

Mawissa, on the other hand, is a younger and less experienced profile but with greater growth prospects. Born in 2005, he plays for Toulouse and Roma will therefore be able to observe him closely in Saturday’s friendly match.

The young Frenchman is valued at around 10 million by his current club.