The Transfer

Vancouver Whitecaps sign Rob Friend 31-year old striker Rob...

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 11:48:00 -0800

Vancouver Whitecaps sign Rob Friend

31-year old striker Rob Friend has apparently signed a contract with Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

He moves from Eintracht Frankfurt in Germany where he has scored 1 goal in 13 games since 2011. He has also spent time with Borussia Monchengladbach where he netted 28 goals in 83 between 2007 and 2010.

The Canadian International has 2 goals in 32 appearances for the Mens National Team.

Friend would be an interesting pickup for Vancouver, and being a citizen he would not take up an international spot.

Source: https://twitter.com/SoccerInsider/status/292357087906889728

Portland Timbers signing defender Ryan Miller American defender...

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 11:27:14 -0800

Portland Timbers signing defender Ryan Miller

American defender Ryan Miller is said to be joining Portland Timbers for the 2013 season from Halmstad in Sweden.

The 28-year old has previously been in MLS with both Columbus Crew and DC United, but was released ultimately by DC before moving to Sweden to play with Ljungskile in 2009. He was then transferred to Halmstad in 2010 where he has played in 65 games for since 2010.

Miller was called up to play for the US Mens National team in 2010, but has yet to play any minutes for his country thus far.

Source: https://twitter.com/SoccerByIves/status/292349484086734848

Kenyan midfielder Crispin Olando signs with Whitecaps FC The...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 22:30:00 -0800

Kenyan midfielder Crispin Olando signs with Whitecaps FC

The talented 25-year old midfielder Crispin Olando has joined Vancouver Whitecaps FC after parting ways with previous club Tusker FC following the 2012 season due to knee and back injury problems.

Olando was recently training with multiple sides including Nairobi City Stars and Gor Mahia, but has apparently agreed to join Vancouver on a 6-month deal.

He is said to have departed Kenya today for Vancouver to join the ‘Caps for pre-season training camp ahead of the 2013 campaign.

Source: http://www.futaa.com/football/article/olando-set-for-mls-stint

Matias Sanchez linked with move to Columbus Crew Defensive...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 19:57:22 -0800

Matias Sanchez linked with move to Columbus Crew

Defensive midfielder Matias Sanchez is said to be on the way to the USA to accelerate talk to join the Columbus Crew. Chilean side Colo Colo apparently also had interest in Sanchez, but that deal has fallen through.

The 25-year old Argentinian has played in 46 games for Racing Club and a further 94 for Estudiantes where he was part of the 2009 Copa Libertadores and 2010 Apertura champion winners.

Sanchez also was part of the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup champion squad for his native Argentina.

Source: http://www.eldia.com.ar/edis/20130117/Matias-Sanchez-mas-cerca-jugar-Estados-Unidos-20130117131743.htm

Rumour: Frank Lampard joining LA Galaxy An apparent tentative...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 19:33:19 -0800

Rumour: Frank Lampard joining LA Galaxy

An apparent tentative agreement has been reached between Frank Lampard and the LA that would see the English superstar replacing David Beckham as the face of the Galaxy.

The 34-year old midfielder has a wealth of experience for both club and country, netting 24 goals in 148 games for West Ham United, then after a short loan to Swansea City he spent the majority of his career up to this point with Chelsea Football Club amassing 133 goals in 388 games for The Blues. He also has 93 senior caps for England where he put away another 26 goals.

Having played in Euro, Champions League, and World Cup tournaments, Lampard has one of the most impressive resumes of any active player the world over.

With David Beckham moving on from LA after back-to-back MLS Cup victories, the Galaxy are eager to bring in a big name replacement to their side. Chelsea have made it clear that after a 12 year relationship they would not be extending any new offers to Lampard after his contract expires in June. Despite his age, Lampard has had a terrific campaign so far in 2012/13 scoring 7 goals in 14 games from his position in midfield.

Source: http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/69/transfer-zone/2013/01/17/3680485/source-frank-lampard-to-la-galaxy-a-done-deal

Rumour: Could Nigel Reo-Coker be headed to MLS? News of Nigel...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 19:14:00 -0800

Rumour: Could Nigel Reo-Coker be headed to MLS?

News of Nigel Reo-Coker considering MLS has dropped, after an apparent offer from coach Jurgen Klinsmann and the US Mens National Team. Being married to an American, Reo-Coker would be eligible to play for the USA after a period of residency as he has not been capped by England at the mens level.

Portland Timbers and New York Red Bulls are being touted as the two MLS sides that are in the running for the 28-year old midfielders talent.

Currently unattached, a move to the US is a definite possibility. He has apparently turned down a $2million offer from Bursaspor and a second club in Turkey.

“Reo-Coker’s desire to play here that he will accept a wage below that of Designated Player in his first year of a three year deal to get his foot inside the MLS door and launch an international career.”

Reo-Coker started his professional football career for Wimbeldon, where he spent 5 years in their youth system before joining the first team in 2002. He appeared in 58 games before moving to West Ham United in 2004 and finishing runners-up in the FA Cup finals in 2006/06. Hitting the pitch in 120 fixtures for the Hammers, Reo-Coker then moved on to play in over 100 games for Aston Villa and another 37 with Bolton Wanderers.

With over 250 games played in the Premiership, he took a short 3-month spell with Championship side Ipswitch Town which was not extended.

Source: http://www.prostamerika.com/2013/01/17/timbers-lining-up-klinsmanns-favourite/76455?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

2013 MLS SuperDraft Board Round 1: 01. New England Revolution -...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 09:55:00 -0800

2013 MLS SuperDraft Board

Round 1:

01. New England Revolution - Andrew Farrell (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/andrew-farrell

02. Chivas USA - Carlos Alvarez (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/carlos-alvarez

03. Toronto FC - Kyle Bekker (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/kyle-bekker

04. Vancouver Whitecaps FC - Kekuta Manneh (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/kekuta-manneh

05. Vancouver Whitecaps FC - Erik Hurtado (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/erik-hurtado

06. Colorado Rapids - Deshorn Brown (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/deshorn-brown

07. FC Dallas - Walker Zimmerman (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/walker-zimmerman

08. L’Impact Montreal - Blake Smith (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/blake-smith

09. Columbus Crew - Ryan Finley (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Ryan-Finley

10. Seattle Sounders - Eriq Zavaleta (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Eriq-Zavaleta

11. Colorado Rapids - Dillon Powers (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Dillon-Powers

12. Real Salt Lake - John Stertzer (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/John-Stertzer

13. Houston Dynamo - Jason Johnson (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Jason-Johnson

14. Sporting KC - Mikey Lopez (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Mikey-Lopez

15. San Jose Earthquakes - Tommy Muller (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Tommy-Muller

16. Toronto FC - Emery Welshman (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Emery-Welshman

17. DC United - Taylor Kemp (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Taylor-Kemp

18. L’Impact Montreal - Fernando Monge (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Fernando-Monge

19. LA Galaxy - Charlie Rugg (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Charlie-Rugg

Round 2:

20. FC Dallas - Ryan Hollingshead (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Ryan-Hollingshead

21. New England Revolution - Donnie Smith (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Donald-Smith

22. New York Red Bulls - Ian Christianson (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Ian-Christianson

23. New England Revolution - Luke Spencer (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Luke-Spencer

24. LA Galaxy - Kofi Opare (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Kofi-Opare

25. Colorado Rapids - Kory Kindle (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Kory-Kindle

26. Philadelphia Union - Don Anding (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Don-Anding

27. L’Impact Montreal - Paolo DelPiccolo (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Paolo-DelPiccolo

28. Columbus Crew - Drew Beckie (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Drew-Beckie

29. Real Salt Lake - Devon Sandoval (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Devon-Sandoval

30. Chicago Fire - Yazid Atouba Emane (F) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Yazid-Atouba

31. Philadelphia Union - Stephen Okai (M)

32. L’Impact Montreal - Brad Stuver (G) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Brad-Stuver

33. San Jose Earthquakes - Dan Delgado (M) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/danchrisandre-delgado

34. Portland Timbers - Dillon Tucker-Gangnes (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/dylan-tucker-gangnes

35. Seattle Sounders - Dylan Remick (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/dylan-remick

36. New England Revolution - Luis Soffner (G) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/Luis-Soffner

37. Houston Dynamo - Jimmy Nealis (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/jimmy-nealis

38. LA Galaxy - Greg Cochrane (D) http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/greg-cochrane

Chris Boyd’s contract bought out by Portland...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 09:17:03 -0800

Chris Boyd’s contract bought out by Portland Timbers

Designated Player, Chris Boyd has parted ways with Portland Timbers as his contract was bought out by the club.

Earning $1,515,000 in 2012, Boyd score d7 goals in 26 games for Portland. Boyd has previously suited up for Rangers, Middlesbrough, Kilmarnock, and Nottingham Forest in the UK, as well as Eskisehirspor in Turkey.

Source: http://www.soccerbyives.net/2013/01/breaking-timbers-part-ways-with-boyd.html

Portland Timbers trade Mike Fucito to San Jose Mike Fucito is on...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 08:52:39 -0800

Portland Timbers trade Mike Fucito to San Jose

Mike Fucito is on the move again, this time after being traded from Portland Timbers to San Jose Earthquakes for a 2nd round pick in todays MLS SuperDraft.

Fucito spent 2009-2011 with Seattle Sounders, appearing in 23 games and scoring 3 goals. Last season was split between Montreal Impact and Portland Timbers where he suited up in 13 games total games.

At 26, Fucito is a talented midfielder who can also play up top, though hasn’t found regular time in the starting XI at any of the organizations he’s been part of.

Source: http://www.portlandtimbers.com/news/2013/01/timbers-acquire-second-round-pick-2013-mls-superdraft-san-jose-exchange-mike-fucito

Kevin Harbottle signs with Colorado Rapids Attacking midfielder...

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 08:28:53 -0800

Kevin Harbottle signs with Colorado Rapids

Attacking midfielder Kevin Harbottle has signed with Colorado Rapids from Universidad Catolica of the Chilean Primera Division.

The 22-year old Chilean international has 1 cap to his name and has featured in 93 professional matches dating back to 2008 with Antofagasta. He has recorded 22 goals in that time.

Terms of the deal were not released as per club and league policy.

Source: http://www.coloradorapids.com/news/2013/01/rapids-sign-22-year-old-chilean-winger-kevin-harbottle

Javier Morales re-signs with Real Salt Lake After weeks of...

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 19:16:00 -0800

Javier Morales re-signs with Real Salt Lake

After weeks of negotiations, Javier Morales has re-signed with Real Salt Lake.

The 33-year old playmaker took to Twitter to announce, “I couldn’t be happier. Just sign my new contract with RSL. Thanks to the Club, Owner, coaches, teammates and [especially] to the FANS!”

A poor performance in 2012 resulted in RSL having to offload some of their talent in the off season, sending Fabian Espindola, Will Johnson, and Jamison Olave on to other clubs and leaving some definite holes in their lineup.

Morales has played with RSL since 2007, appearing in 124 games for the Claret & Cobalt.

Full details of the deal are not yet available.

Source: http://www.realsaltlake.com/news/2013/01/real-salt-lake-re-signs-javier-morales

Breaking: Vancouver Whitecaps signing forward Corey...

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:45:00 -0800

Breaking: Vancouver Whitecaps signing forward Corey Hertzog

Forward Corey Hertzog has been signed by the Whitecaps ahead of the 2013 season training camp.

Seeing action in 5 games with New York Red Bulls in 2011/2012, Hertzog spent much of 2012 on loan to Wilmington Hammerheads where he played in 17 games and scored 9 goals. The 22-year old had his option declined by RBNY following the 2012 season.

Hertzog was on $103,500 in 2012.

Source: https://twitter.com/tylergreen1040/status/291702413579141120

Breaking: Vancouver Whitecaps set to sign Paulo Jr. 23-year old...

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:44:00 -0800

Breaking: Vancouver Whitecaps set to sign Paulo Jr.

23-year old Paulo Jr was selected by Vancouver in the 2nd Round of the MLS Re-Entry Draft on December 14.

As per league policy, Paulo Jr was extended an offer by the club within 1 week of being selected and the negotiations had been ongoing.

In 22 games last season with Real Salt Lake, the Brazilian scored 2 goals.

Source: https://twitter.com/tylergreen1040/status/291702413579141120

Juninho completes permanent move to LA Galaxy After spending the...

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 12:56:00 -0800

Juninho completes permanent move to LA Galaxy

After spending the last 3 seasons on loan to LA Galaxy from Sao Paulo, Juninho has joined LA permanently after being released by the Brazilian club.

With 13 goals in 87 games, the midfielder has been an important part of the Galaxy squad, helping to win 2 Supporters Shield honours and 2 MLS Cups.

Source: http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2013/01/16/galaxy-complete-full-transfer-juninho-sao-paulo

Breaking: Jeff Larentowicz traded to Chicago Fire Colorado...

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 11:56:00 -0800

Breaking: Jeff Larentowicz traded to Chicago Fire

Colorado Rapids have traded Jeff Larentowicz and the 30th overall SuperDraft pick to Chicago for the 11th overall SuperDraft pick, an international roster spot for 2013, and $75,000 of Allocation money.

Larentowicz had been with Colorado since 2010 when they won the MLS Cup, making 96 appearances for the club and tallying 14 goals. Prior to being with Colorado, Larentowicz spent 5 years with New England Revolution, seeing action in 111 games.

Since 2011, the “Ginger Ninja” has had 4 caps with the US Mens National team.

Source: http://www.chicago-fire.com/news/2013/01/fire-acquire-midfielder-jeff-larentowicz-colorado-rapids

Vancouver Whitecaps sign 19-year old Ethen Sampson After...

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 08:05:00 -0800

Vancouver Whitecaps sign 19-year old Ethen Sampson

After trialing with Vancouver last year, African Soccer Development captain Ethen Sampson has been offered a 2-year contract with the Whitecaps.

Sampson, a natural central defender from Cape Town, South Africa will add more depth to an already crowded position on Vancouver’s roster. He is set to join Vancouver for pre-season within the next week.

Ethen said the following about the move, “I loved my time on trial in Vancouver - their training sessions were really similar to the training we do at ASD, so it felt like I fit in straight away. I know this is a great opportunity for me and its what I have been striving for. I really hope my move will open more doors for ASD players in the MLS, because ASD has not only made me the player I am today, but also the character I am both on and off the field.”

Source: http://www.africasoccerdevelopments.com/index.php?asd-captain-ethen-sampson-to-join-vancouver-whitecaps,518

Rumour: Robert Earnshaw linked with Vancouver Whitecaps...

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 17:04:00 -0800

Rumour: Robert Earnshaw linked with Vancouver Whitecaps FC

31-year old striker Robert Earnshaw could be joining Vancouver Whitecaps FC from Cardiff City where he had been on loan to Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv.

A native of Zambia, Earnshaw has played his international football for Wales, featuring in 58 games and scoring 16 goals since 2002.

Cardiff City is where Earnshaw spent his Youth career, and he has played 202 games for the Bluebirds while netting 89 goals in two spells with the club. He has also played for West Bromwich Albion, Norwich City, Derby County, and Nottingham Forest.

Unhappy with the location of his current loan in Israel, Earnshaw was quoted saying ”The football was good, the city of Tel Aviv was unbelievably beautiful, but there were crazy moments.” He said ”Overall the experience was good, though, and I enjoyed the football. But I didn’t sign up for the politics and a war.”

It has been confirmed that Earnshaw is surplus to Cardiff City’s requirements, and will be leaving Cardiff at the end of January.

Source: http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/cardiff-city/cardiff-city-fc/2013/01/15/cardiff-city-striker-rob-earnshaw-looks-to-usa-move-after-tel-aviv-troubles-91466-32598098/

Rumour: Mancini coming to MLS? 32-year old Brazilian midfielder...

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 08:40:00 -0800

Rumour: Mancini coming to MLS?

32-year old Brazilian midfielder Mancini may be coming to MLS as it has been reported he was offered a contract by an unspecified club.

Mancini has had an interesting career dating back to 1999 and has been part of some giant clubs including Roma, Internazionale, and Milan. He has 6 caps for Brazil, and over 300 appearances for his various clubs.

Source: http://www.lancenet.com.br/minuto/Atletico-MG-Mancini-estuda-futebol-EUA_0_846515370.html

Rumour: San Jose targeting 23-year old Isidro...

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 08:30:59 -0800

Rumour: San Jose targeting 23-year old Isidro Gutierrez?

Salvadoran midfielder Isidro Gutierrez could be making his way to MLS to play for San Jose Earthquakes in 2013 if rumblings about interest from the club are true.

With 2 goals in 7 caps for his country at the senior level, Gutierrez has proven to have skill on the ball and good finishing. His current club side, Aguila, has given him action in 42 games since 2010, where he has scored 13 goals.

Rumour: Seattle Sounders targeting Portugese striker Helder...

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 15:17:00 -0800

Rumour: Seattle Sounders targeting Portugese striker Helder Postiga?

Portugese striker Helder Postiga has been linked with a possible move to MLS to join Seattle Sounders from Zaragoza. The 30-year old has 23 goals in 57 caps for Portugal and 81 goals in 315 career matches for clubs including Porto, Tottenham Hotspur, Saint-Etienne, Panathinaikos, and Sporting CP.

Seattle Sounders have had a rough off-season thus far, seeing Freddy Montero leave for Colombia on a 1-year loan, veteran defender Jeff Parke re-join Philadephia Union, and talk of both Osvaldo Alonso and Mauro Rosales linked with possible moves though nothing so far has come of it.

Add to that there have been a couple of deals rumoured to be bringing in talent to Seattle from Honduras have apparently fallen through and Seattle is decidedly weaker than they were in 2012.

Source: http://seattletimes.com/html/soundersfcblog/2020110481-kansas-city-to-host-2013-mls-a.html