The Philadelphia Union have signed defensive midfielder Richard Odada from Red Star Belgrade to a two and a half-year contract, with a club option for a third and fourth year in exchange for an undisclosed transfer fee.

He is set to be added to the Union’s active roster following receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and P1 Visa and will occupy an international roster slot.

“Richard is a holding midfielder with positional versatility and a great potential to be a valuable contributor as we continue to develop our roster,” said Philadelphia Union Sporting Director, Ernst Tanner.

“He can play multiple midfield roles as well as center back, and he has the height, speed and physicality we were searching for. We look forward to integrating him this year and encouraging his development for the future.”

Odada joins after featuring twice for Red Star Belgrade, and making 25 appearances for RFK Grafičar Beograd while on loan in 2020. He also saw time with first-tier side FK Metalac Gornji Milanovac in 2021, where he managed 27 appearances.

Internationally, Odada has five caps for Kenya’s Men’s National Team. He first debuted in September 2021, ahead of a pair of World Cup qualifier matches, where he made his debut in a 0-0 tie with Uganda on September 2, 2021.

The defensive midfielder will now arrive to support the Philadelphia Union in their fight for the Supporters’ Shield. The team currently leads the Eastern Conference, but trails LAFC by three points.

The team returns to action on Saturday when visiting FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium.

This article was originally published on 90min as Philadelphia Union sign defensive midfielder Richard Odada from Red Star Belgrade.