Minnesota United today announced it has signed defensive midfielder Lawrence Olum. The Kenyan international arrives following two years with the Portland Timbers and is sure to bring a veteran presence to the Loon’s backline and midfield with six years of postseason experience.

“It’s a nice story to have another player that’s worked with Adrian for many years, as well as played in this market for us years ago,” said MNUFC Sporting Director Manny Lagos. “He adds a lot of good depth and a veteran leadership to the middle of the field.”

Olum, 34, started his professional career with Portland Timbers while they were still in the USL in 2007. He went on to play with the Minnesota Thunder, Austin Aztex and Orlando City, all at the USL level, before joining Sporting Kansas City in MLS in September of 2011. In Kansas City, Olum played 5,245 minutes over 86 games, making two postseason appearances and playing alongside current Loon Ike Opara. He was then traded to Portland Timbers FC ahead of the 2017 season. During his time in Portland, Olum started 40 of 52 games played, across 3,735 minutes. He was also a part of the Timbers postseason runs in both 2017 and 2018, playing six games and 270 minutes.

On the international side, Olum has made four appearances with the Kenyan National Team. He was called up in November of 2012 for the 2012 CECAFA Cup and made his international debut in a 1-0 victory over Comoros in May 2014.

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Transaction: Minnesota United acquires Lawrence Olum.

VITALS

Lawrence Olum

Position: Midfielder

Date of birth: July 10, 1984

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 185

Birthplace: Nairobi, Kenya

Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya

Citizenship: Kenya