Roma’s American owner Thomas DiBenedetto came out a few weeks ago and discussed his dreams to bring an American player onto the squad. The tycoon sees the rapid rise of the sport within his homeland as an untapped resource. After signing a deal to use Disney’s Orlando facilities for the winter, an American player would further help enhance Roma’s popularity within the United States. There are a few names names that have been mentioned and not only would their American nationality help the Giallorossi off the field, but, their presence on the field could be a big plus too.

Michael Bradley

Michael Bradley was a regular for the US national team while his father was in charge but there was a lot of concern over how qualified he was to anchor the midfield. After Aston Villa sent him back to Monchengladbach, where he was very unwanted, he packed his bags and set off for the peninsula. Bradley has flourished since his move to Chievo. He has shown an understanding for off-the ball movement and overall field awareness that he had been lacking in the previous years. Add that to his determination and work ethic, and you have a quality player. He is the best pick for DiBenedetto as he already has the experience in the league, and his style of play means he will do whatever is asked of him. Roma would be an upgrade but no so big that he would be doomed to fail. It is a perfect fit and DiBenedetto should puruse this option above the rest.

Clint Dempsey

Dempsey is probably the best American to play the game of all time. He is coming off his best season at Fulham, where he is leading the team in scoring and assists. He has proven himself over the last few years and although he would be content with staying at Fulham, he has also expressed a desire to play for a bigger team. Roma, however, may not be big enough. Dempsey has dreams of playing in the Champions League and Roma cannot guarantee that this year and with only three spots for Serie A, there is no guarantee Roma will be back the following year. It is also unlikely that Dempsey would leave England for another country where he doesn’t know the language. It would take a lot of wooing, and probably cash to get Deuce to move away from his comfort zone.

Jozy Altidore

After bouncing around from club to club, all over Europe (England, Spain, Turkey), Jozy has found a home at AZ Alkmaar and has been a big assest in their quest for the Eredivise title. He has been scoring both in the domestic league, as well as in the Europa league. A move to Serie A could really take the 22 year-old’s game to the next level, like Bradley. However, there are better striking options out there, and Alkmaar are in the title chase. They are favorites to lock down at least second place, which would give Altidore the chance to play in the Champions League. It looks unlikely that DiBenedetto would pursue Altidore, and even more unlikely that Altidore leaves the Dutch side especially with an opportunity to play on the biggest of stages.

Some lesser options…

Maurice Edu

With all the issues surrounding Rangers, it may be time for Edu to part ways with the club he has called home for the last 3 years. A young and versatile midfielder, he has great pace, played on the biggest stages and would be a cheaper addition for DiBenedetto. He may be an option worth exploring if one of the bigger names isn’t available.

Brek Shea

Not many coaches have shown affection for a player like Klinsmann has with Brek Shea. Only 22, the young winger is a regular fixture in Klinsmann’s plans. The German legend has been looking to get his players some time in big leagues, specifically Shea. With Klinsmann’s history in Italy, if DiBenedetto were to ask him, he may suggest the youngster. This is obviously very unlikely, and a poor move, but his name needs to be thrown in the mix.

Dempsey and Bradley are viable options for any club, outside of those two however, DiBenedetto would do better to look to other nationalities. It is important that if he does bring in an American, they will get the opportunity to play and add something to the team, and they won’t just be for publicity. He should do everything to try to avoid another Onyewu-Milan situation.