SPORTING KANSAS CAST AN EYE OVER BOSELLI
When his top goal scorer has a modest eight goals during the 2017 campaign, it’s no surprise that Sporting Kansas City manager Peter Vermes has identified the forward position as an area where he would be willing to splash the club’s cash.
Mexican outlet El Universal suggests that 32-year-old powerful Argentine striker Mauro Boselli, currently playing for Liga MX side Leon, is the number one target for Vermes and could be the subject of a $4 million bid.
Boselli has amassed for international caps for Argentina having played extensively in both Europe and the Americas, appearing for the likes of Boca Juniors, Estudiantes, Genoa, Palermo and Wigan Athletic. He has earned the title of Liga MX top scorer in three of the last four seasons.
ARTUR IS A VALUED MEMBER OF THE CREW
Having been on loan from Brazilian giants Sao Paolo for the season, Columbus Crew have acted quickly to secure the signature of midfielder Artur on a permanent transfer. Sporting director and head coach Gregg Berhalter described the transfer as one of the club’s priorities so it’s no shock to see Artur announced shortly after the end of the season despite reports in Brazil suggesting Sao Paolo wanting Artur back.
In a conference call, Berhalter highlighted Artur’s strong 2017 season; “I think he has a very high level. I would go as far as to say he’s one of the most promising young players in the league. Is he going to realize that potential? We don’t know. Hopefully we can help bring it out of him. But what I do know is that he has the character and the mental makeup to succeed.”
According to Gregg Berhalter, the deal highlights the increasing reputation of Major League Soccer in Brazil and the developing relationship between the two clubs.
COSTA RICA GOT A HANDY SIDE THIS YEAR
As briefly mentioned in yesterday’s MLS Rundown, 23-year-old Costa Rican left back Ronald Matarrita has signed a contract extension with New York City FC via the use of Targeted Allocation Money. It will be Ronald’s third season with the Sky Blues.
In a club release, Matarrita praised New York City FC; “I am very happy to re-sign. It’s the team that has given me the strength to raise my level as a football player and as a professional.”
Head coach Patrick Vieira was quick to offer praise and taper expectations; “He’s still really young and he still has some parts of his game that he needs to work on to improve to get even better,” said Vieira of a player ranked 16th in MLSsoccercom’s 2017 24 Under 24 countdown; “but I’m glad that he will have the chance to do that with us here in New York. This competition for places in every position is really important and that’s why I’m so happy that Ronald has signed this new contract.”
A HOUSTON DYNAMO
A second player to join following a loan spell is Juan David Cabezas, who is staying with Houston Dynamo after transferring from Colombian club Deportivo Cali.
The ball winning midfielder wearing the number five jersey assisted Houston to the Western Conference Championship, playing in 27 regular season games and all five of Dynamo’s playoff matches. Having gained the signature of Cabezas, Houston Dynamo now have 15 players under contract for the 2018 campaign. The 26-year-old midfielder occupies an international roster spot for the Dynamo.
Any Other Business…
The US men’s national team will face France in a friendly match on June 9th 2018 in Lyon prior to the World Cup… Julio Cascante could be on his way to Portland Timbers having played for Saprissa against the Timbers in the group stage of the 2016-17 CONCACAF Champions League… LA Galaxy have lined up three big friendlies in February against New York City FC, San Jose Earthquakes and Vancouver Whitecaps.
