The Italy Under-21 star completed a medical at Fulham's training ground last week and the club confirmed the signing in a statement on their website on Monday morning. The loan deal appeared to be in doubt two weeks ago when Okaka picked up an injury - but Hodgson stepped up his pursuit of the striker after Andy Johnson and Clint Dempsey both picked up knocks in recent weeks. Okaka is hoping his move to London will help him develop as a player. "I have been with Roma for five years," said Okaka. "I have grown thanks to the advice of my team-mates. "But to have a leap in quality, it is crucial for me to go to England and play in the Premier League. I hope I can return stronger than before. "The loan deal expires in June but there is the option to remain there for a further year. We shall see." Okaka stole the show in his last game for Roma by scoring a spectacular late winner in Sunday's 2-1 defeat of Siena. But Roma coach Claudio Ranieri has no regrets over sanctioning Okaka's exit and hopes his time in London will benefit the Giallorossi in the long term. "Stefano is a great lad," said Ranieri. "I have no regrets. "He has been at Roma for five years and I believe the experience in England could mark a turning point in his career. "He can do a lot more and the Premier League will give us back a much stronger player." Okaka has made seven league appearances for Roma this season, all as a substitute. The 20-year-old is under contract with the Serie A club until June 2012.
