Details from Sochaux on Nogueira deal

A very reliable source in Sochaux has let MLS Transfers know some details of the Nogueira deal.

-The Union approached Sochaux some weeks ago about a transfer for Nogueira.

-Sochaux originally wanted somewhere around $2 million for him and the Union "immediately laughed at this".

-After some weeks of back and forth banter, a $200k price was put on Nogueira in which the Union agreed to pay.

-The Union will owe Sochaux an extra $150k if they get relegated from Ligue 1 at the end of May 2014 AND will have the first rights back to Nogueira if they get promoted to Ligue 1 and the player wants to go back to France.

Ronald Vargas Rep: Anderlecht future isn't bright, Red Bulls still in sight

Based off of various reports, it seems the Red Bulls are not interested in Ronald Vargas due to monetary and tactical reasons. This may be true at the moment but who knows what the Red Bulls will need come the summer transfer window. MLS Transfers reached out to Ronald Vargas' Public Relations representative (with the the help from a few South American journalists) who told us the most recent updates for their client:

- Ronald had a sit down meeting with Anderlecht twice within the past week to discuss the next 6 months

- Ronald is contracted to Anderlecht until June, which he plans to fulfill 

- After his contract runs down, he will have another meeting with Anderlecht staff to discuss future with club

- Ronald has had formal offers from Switzerland and Brazil only (No mention of club names) within the past two weeks

- Ronald is interested in all options that become available to him after June 

And most importantly to Red Bull fans...

- Ronald's European based representatives are in midst of planning a meeting with Red Bulls Soccer Director, Gerard Houllier

- Ronald is still interested in North, Central and South American options

Don't close the book just yet. 

Vargas Update: Red Bulls declines 3 million euro offer, more new information

Via Visionoventa.com

We recently spoke with Daniel Prat, writer for The National in Venezuela, and he has told MLS Transfers a few updates on Ronald Vargas to New York.

First thing, New York has had contact with Anderlecht this week about Vargas. It seems that both parties are interested in the deal.

Daniel reported that Anderlecht wanted 3 million euros for Vargas but New York swiftly declined that offer. Negotiations are ongoing and more news is expected sometime tomorrow.

Daniel also tells us that Vargas' sister does not live in New Jersey, but his father-in-law has a house in New Jersey that they visited "three of four times" over the last year. Family is still very important to him and has a factor in where he wants to play.

Keep checking into this space as we will have updates fast and furious over the next few days.

(UPDATE) 1/22/14 2:31 pm

 @Sporting_AND (twitter), has told MLS Transfers that Vargas is making 900,000 euros at Anderlecht, equivalent to $1.21 million dollars.

Interview: Undrafted but ready for the next challenge: Enrique Cardenas

Via MLSsoccer.com

Enrique Cardenas didn't get drafted. Some have described him as one of the top midfielders in this years draft yet, no one took a chance on the diminutive attacker.

Ives from Soccer By Ives rated Cardenas as his 62nd best player in this years draft and Top Drawer had him as the 30th best player.

We had a moment to talk to Enrique, just a few hours after the second part of the draft ended.

MLS Transfers: You were described as being one of the best attacking midfielders in the draft. Why do you think you weren't drafted?

Cardenas: I didn't have the best showing in the combine. It's difficult to play in combines for many reasons but more importantly because the midfield gets bypassed so often.  Lots of long balls which is suitable for defenders and forwards, so it's difficult for technical players who like to play with the ball on the ground.

MLS Transfers: What are your raw emotions right now?

Cardenas: Disappointed. I know given an opportunity I would be successful because I wouldn't settle for anything but that. They measured my height, weight, fitness, but they didn't measure what matters most, my heart, and even more relevant, my soccer IQ and technical ability. But I'm completely okay with that because I don't want to play for a team or league that doesn't value those things. More importantly though, I have complete faith in God's plan. I know everything will work out. I look forward to proving everyone wrong.

MLS Transfers: I know you said you may have some opportunities overseas. Care to explain?

Cardenas: (My) agent is currently in talks with teams from Sweden, Finland and Germany. Sweden looks like a great opportunity. More suitable playing style for me.

MLS Transfers: Any MLS teams contact you after the draft?

Cardenas: Agent is currently handling that. Portland has invited me into training camp from his reports. Working on some other clubs but we'll see what comes about and weigh (the) options.

SuperDraft Rounds 3 and 4- LIVE

Third Round

39. Portland- George Fochive, Midfielder

40. Chivas USA- Kris Tyrpak

41. Kansas City- Peter Schmetz
42. Columbus- Fifi Baiden
43. Dallas- Nicholas Walker
44. Philly- Richard Marquez
45. Columbus- Adam James Bedell
46. Philly- Alex Sweetin
47. San Jose- AJ Corrado
48. Montreal- Pete Caringi
49. Colorado- Tolani Ibikunle
50. New England- Pierre Omanga
51. Vancouver-Michael Kafari
52. Philly-Aodhan Quinn
53. Salt Lake- Joey Dillon
54. Houston- Michael Lisch
55. Seattle-Stefano Rijssell
56. DC United- Zachery Barnes
57. Kansas City- Alex Martinez

Fourth Round

58. Vancouver-Mackenzie Pridham
59. Chivas USA- Michael Nwiloh
60. Toronto- Kene Eze
61. Chicago-Zack Bolden
62. Dallas-Ronny Santos Mendoza
63. Philly-Luca Gimenez
64. Vancouver-Michael Calderon
65. Chicago-Kadeem Dacres
66. San Jose-Devante Dubose
67. Montreal-Jordan Ongaro
68. Colorado-Albert Edwards
69. DC United-Travis Golden
70. Salt Lake-Daniel Jackson
71. Portland- Victor Chavez
72. LA- Pass
73. Portland- Nikita Kotlov
74. San Jose- Billy Knutsen
75. Chicago- Bryan Ciesiulka
76. Kansas City- Reinaldo Brenes
77. Seatlle- Fabio Pereira

Rumor: Hallfredsson and de Zeeuw linked with MLS moves

 

Via zimbio.com

The transfer season is in full throttle and the rumors are coming fast and furious.

Hellas Verona center midfielder Emil Hallfredsson is gaining interest from an MLS team, says a source connected to Verona.

Hallfredson is a 29 year old Iceland international who has been staring for the Serie A side Hellas Verona. Know for his defensive prowess and his big frame (6"1'), the sources says an MLS team has watched him in person over the few weeks.

David Amoyal, a writer and translator for Gianlucadimarzio.com, one of the most trustworthy Italian sources says Hallfresson may be hard to sign.

"Hallfredsson said in late December,  "I sincerely hope to continue at Verona, I have an expiring contract so let's see what happens."

Via Wikipedia.com

In other possible transfer news, Anderlecht midfielder and Netherlands national team midfielder Demy de Zeeuw is being pursued by MLS as well.

This may short lived as he is on loan from Spartak Moscow and Anderlecht manager John Van den Brom has said that Demy can't leave the club in January. A summer move (after the World Cup) may make more sense.

Interview: Draftee Eric Stevenson opens up about playing in New York

Via Ohio.com

Most have said this draft has been a down year and not much has been expected of this class outside the top 10 players taken. That's why Eric Stevenson is trying to break the mold. Selected 34th by the New York Red Bulls, Stevenson is ready to embrace the challenge that's in front of him.

"I was beyond excited (to get the call from New York)," said the 22 year old "I watched the team play a decent amount last season and I love Red Bull's style of play. I couldn't think of a better fit for me."

"(Petke) just said he was excited to have me on board and made sure I felt very welcomed. He made sure I was sorted with all the details and everything I needed to know for the upcoming season."

Stevenson's career at Akron had been highlighted by winning a national championship in 2010 and slowly started becoming more ingrained with the team over the years. By his senior year, Stevenson had seen many of his former teammates turn professional. 

"A lot of the past teammates of mine from Akron had gone on to the pros so over the years I have watched a lot of (MLS) games." 

"I was part of the (Columbus) Crew academy and then I played with the Seattle Sounders PDL team, so I have had the chance to be around pro players and MLS organizations."

Delving into the fanatical side of his soccer life, Stevenson is a long time Barcelona and Arsenal fan.  

"I have been an Arsenal and Barca fan for forever, so getting the chance to actually play with (Thierry) Henry is going to be an absolute honor."

"I never imagined growing up that I would play with Henry so it's still crazy for me to think about, I can't wait!"

Although a talented, and hard working player, Stevenson knows he still has some work to do to become a weapon in New York.

"I would say growing my knowledge of the game and adjusting to the pace of MLS would be the biggest things. Also, it will be important for me to absorb as much about the game as I can from the veteran players like Henry."

All that being said, it seems like the 5' 8" man from Ohio is ready to embrace New York and the challenges that lie ahead.

"I heard New York Red Bulls have the best fans in the country so I look forward to getting the chance to play in front of them the most."

-Marc Kusant (@TheRedestBull)

 

MLS SuperDraft Selections

First Round

1. Philly- Andre Blake, Goalkeeper
2. DC- Steve Birnbaum, Defender
3. Vancouver- Christian Dean, Defender
4. New England- Steve Neumann, Midfielder
5. Montreal- Eric Miller, Defender
6. FC Dallas- Tesho Akindele, Foeward
7. Vancouver- Andre Lewis, Midfielder
8. Seattle- Damion Lowe, Defender
9. San Jose- JJ Koval- Stanford
10. Toronto FC- Nick Hagglund, Defender
11. New England- Patrick Mullins, Forward
12. Colorado- Marlon Hairston, Midfielder
13. Chicago- Marco Franco, Defender
14. Columbus- Ben Sweat, Defender
15. Philly- Pedro Ribeiro, Midfielder
16. Houston- AJ Cochran, Defender
17. Portland- Ntokozo Tshuma, Forward
18. Real Salt Lake- Ryan Neil, Midfielder
19. Colorado- Grant Van De Casteele, Defender

Second Round

20. Chivas USA- Thomas McNamara, Midfielder
21. Seattle- Jimmy Ockford, Defender
22. New York- Chris Duvall, Defender
23. Los Angeles- Kyle Venter, Defender
24. Toronto FC- Daniel Lovitz, Midfielder
25. Philly- Kevin Cope, Defender
26. Portland- Taylor Peay, Defender
27. Philly- Robbie Derschang, Defender
28. San Jose- Joe Sofia, Defender
29. DC United- Victor Munoz, Midfielder
30. Vancouver- Mamadou Diouf, Forward
31. New England- Alec Sundly, Midfielder
32. Houston- Mark Sherrod, Forward
33. Colorado- Jared Watts, Midfielder
34. New York- Eric Stevenson, Midfielder
35. Colorado- John Berner, Goalkeeper
36. Portland- Aaron Long, Midfielder
37. Montreal- George Malki, Midfielder
38. Kansas City- Adnan Gabeljic, Forward

Third Round is on 1/21/13

Source: Red Bulls after Anderlecht playmaker

Via rsca.be

A source with connections to Anderlecht has told MLS Transfers that the New York Red Bulls are looking into acquiring attacking midfielder Ronald Vargas.

His 2010-2011 season was a breakout for him. After he scored 15 goals in the league for Club Brugge, he made a 2.5 million euro move to Belgian giants Anderlecht. The Venezuelan international, 27, has been with Anderlecht since 2011 but has only appeared in 23 total games due to various injuries.

He also featured for Caracas FC, his boyhood club.

He is valued at 1.5 million euros.

More information as this story develops.

(Edit): Here's a video from 2011

(UPDATE): According to @Sporting_AND, a loan move could be set in place for Vargas should Anderlecht sign Thorgan Hazard from Chelsea.  The source also says that Red Bulls, FC Basel, and 2 other Brazilian clubs are interested in him, but Vargas would prefer a move to New York over all of them.

(UPDATE): A source says Zulte Waregem will want compensation for Hazard going to Anderlecht and may want Vargas in the process. He still has made it clear that New York is his first choice.

(UPDATE): 1/16/14 New York coach Mike Petke said during a conference call to reporters on January 16, that Vargas has come across his desk but worries how to player will fit into the system, and under the salary cap circumstances.

(UPDATE): 1/21/14 Thanks to @DanCovello and @Sporting_AND for the news that Varags is meeting with his agent in the next couple of days to discuss his options. Among those are New York Red Bulls, clubs in Turkey, Brazil, Qatar, Switzerland, Portugal and Spain. Link to that information is here.

More information has surfaced from a source that says, Spanish side Numanica, Portuguese side Rio Ave FC are in the running, but still, Vargas wants a move to New York over everything. It is unknown if he likes the league or the city itself, but the source is very adamant that the Red Bulls is the destination he wants.

Much has been talked about a loan or a permanent move for Vargas. Multiple newspapers have said a loan is an option but the source says a loan for until June is more likely than an outright buy, just to make sure the buying club is willing to keep Varags in the long run. Anderlecht will most likely have a "buy option" at the end of the loan deal.

Second Update today: @DanielPrat, a Venezuelan writer says that Vargas' sister lives in New Jersey, which is possibly influencing his decision to come to New York Red Bulls. He also says that the stumbling block could be the transfer fee. Anderlecht are asking for 3 million euros.

Union and Sochaux in crazy cycle

In what seems like a fantasy land, the Union and French club are linked to each other like no other right now. What MLS Transfers has found out:

The Union are interested in acquiring Sochaux midfielder Vincent Nogueira.

Sochuax are looking into the possibility of  adding Maurice Edu to their squad to fight off relegation.

The Union are interested in Edu as well.

Oh, how the webs weave.

Source: Edu has American suitor and Euro options

Via Zimbio.com

Ives Galarcep reported earlier today that US National team midfielder Maurice Edu could be heading to the Union. While that still may be the case, a source has told MLS Transfers that Edu also has interest in Turkey. 

The source says he is not able to confirm what team but implied that it could be former employer Bursaspor, as Edu impressed in his short loan at the club in 2013. It seems to the source that Edu is willing to go back to MLS but is looking out for his best interests, in terms of monetary incentives. Edu may be more concerned about financials than starting and getting minutes for a club at this point in his career.

Edu is currently making $1.38 million at Stoke City. (via Google)

More information to come as the story develops. 

Source: Agudelo signs with Stoke City

Via MLSsoccer.com

A source with close contact to Juan Agudelo has told MLS Transfers that the 21 year old has signed for Stoke City.

The source believes the length of the contract is until May 2018 and that a loan deal until June is being set up currently. Clubs that have inquired for the loan include Anderlecht, Dundee United, FC Twente and two others.

The announcement from Stoke City should be happening within the next 24-48 hours.

More information as this story develops.

(Edit): Belgium side Standard Liege are also interested in a 6 month loan deal.

Benedict Bradley?

Via TheStar.com

It's been known for about a week now that Michael Bradley will be suiting up for Toronto FC this coming season. After this morning's unveiling of himself and Jermain Defoe, Toronto's dream of fielding a team capable of competing for the Supporters' Shield has finally come true. However, whether they will actually compete for the shield or not, is another story. Toronto sports fans are quite familiar with high expectations followed by disappointment as the city's Major League Baseball team, the Blue Jays, had an abysmal season after being dubbed a World Series favorite by many. Toronto FC hope that their recent signees can learn to gel with one another in a way that Blue Jays players could not.

With that being said, what does the signing of Michael Bradley mean for USMNT fans? Sure, Bradley is leaving one of the better leagues in the world (Serie A) for the MLS, a league that still has some kinks to work out and whose competition is not nearly as skilled as Serie A. But the real issue isn't the league that Bradley chose, but the team that he decided to sign with. Bradley, who is certainly in line for the USMNT captaincy, chose to play for a Canadian team. One would think that if Bradley was going to transfer to an MLS team, it would at least be an American one. Think of it like this: Bradley going to Toronto at 26 years of age is like an English superstar like Frank Lampard or Steven Gerrard playing at Swansea City or Cardiff City (both located in Wales, not England) in their prime instead of Chelsea and Liverpool, respectively. It just shouldn't happen! If a player of such importance to his national team is going to head to a less competitive league, he should at least be playing his home games in front his home country's fans (no offense, Canada.)

Is Bradley a traitor for choosing to play for a Canadian team? I'll let you be the judge. Let us know in the comments below.

- Jake Vasquez (@JakeVasquez49)

Source: Union and Nogueira agree to terms

Following up on a report from Philly Soccer Page, MLS Transfers has learned that Sochaux midfielder Vincent Nogueira and the Union have come to an agreement on salary.

A source in France has told MLS Transfers that the deal between Philly and Nogueira is done but the two clubs now need to decide on a transfer fee if Vincent is to come in the next few weeks.

More details soon.

Source: Laba wants to stay in Toronto

Via MLSsoccer.com

Matias Laba wants to stay in Toronto.

That's what a source with connections to the Toronto FO is saying to MLS Transfers.

"Laba has always wanted to stay in Toronto. He has never asked to leave and doesn't plan on doing that either. He is committed as ever to helping the team for the upcoming season unless something out of his hands happens."

Rumors have been swirling that Laba would have to leave Toronto because he is a DP, and Toronto just signed 3 DP's this offseason. Now that the slots are full, it's looking likely that he is the odd man out.

The source also said Toronto may have money to buy down his contract or to trade him for another piece to the ever evolving TFC puzzle.

"We're not sure what will happen. He hasn't met with Tim yet but that's something that will be figured out in the next few days."

Report: Xavi in negotiations with New York Red Bulls (UPDATE)

Via GraphicsHunt.com

Finding out more information now. Th story is being reported by respected Italian journal Gianlucadimarzio.com.

The story is by Peppe Di Steffano who says the Xavi could be leaving as soon as the World Cup ends for Spain.

He is also reporting that if Xavi wants to leave, Barcelona won't stand in his way. The deal has just started and not close to being done.

More information here.

More details and information to come shortly.

(UPDATE) A source at gianlucadimarzio has told MLS Transfers that the deal is "moving very rapidly...similar to the Bradley deal."

(UPDATE 2): Twitter @barcastuff, has said that the Red Bulls have made an offer and Xavi is thinking about it. Link here.

(UPDATE 3): @PeppeDiSte says the deal is very close to being done. He was the original source on the rumor.

Source: Agudelo in England, club announced soon

Via Goal.com

A source in England has confirmed that Juan Agudelo is in England and looking to close in on a deal within the next few days.

It is not known what team is interested or if the team is even in England.

A possibility can be for Stoke City to sign and then loan the player out. It has been suggested that Belgium club Anderlecht might be the team Agudelo may play for if loaned out. Originally reported by the Daily Mail. Link here from Tribal Football.

More information and updates to come.

Source: Xavi has not been in contact with Red Bulls

Via Whitegadget.com

Despite rumors that Red Bulls captain Theirry Henry has been trying to seduce Barcelona maestro Xavi, a source with knowledge of the situation in Spain has let MLS Transfers know that no one from the New York Red Bulls front office has made any contact.

What we do know:

-The source says Henry may or may not have contacted Xavi personally. This is not known at this time.

-The Red Bulls are in search for a "#10" and Xavi would clearly fit the role.

-The source insists that Xavi is happy but might make a switch if his role is diminished in the second half of the season. 

- The source can also tells MLS Transfers that New York are not the only team said to be courting the player. Paris St. Germain and German side Bayer Leverkusen are also to be said making inquiries.

More information to come.

Source: Deofe signing this weekend, back to EPL Tuesday (4:04 AM UPDATE on advertsing deal, game vs. Toronto)

Via Huffingtonpost.co.uk

A source in connections with Toronto FC has informed MLS Transfers that Jermain Defoe is set to sign his contract this weekend. In somewhat of a twist, the source is fairly sure the deal is contingent on Defoe heading straight back to the Premier League just days after he signs his contract in Toronto.

The source says Arsenal, Tottenham and another unnamed English club are looking to have him on loan from Toronto for the next few weeks before Toronto starts the MLS regular season.

The source is also saying that written in Defoe's contract could be another opportunity for a loan in the future used at the digression of the player. 

ESPNFC seems to be insisting Arsenal may be in play for Defoe as well. Link here.

More information to come.

(UPDATE) Defoe to Toronto FC is official per team twitter account here.

"We have reached an agreement with Toronto FC for the transfer of Jermain Defoe to the MLS side, with effect from February 28, 2014."

Also, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment has agreed to an advertising and marketing rights deal with Tottenham.

A third game of US Pre-Season tour has been added with Toronto FC on July 23, 2014.

Rumor: Drogba has dinner with New York Red Bulls officials

Via Bornrich.com

According to Turkish outlet Sabah, Didier Drogba was taking his winter vacation in New York where he had dinner with New York officials.  The article also states that he had a meeting with Head of Red Bulls Global Soccer Gerard Houllier, and "allegedly responded positively".

NY Post reported over the summer that Drogba was talked about as a possible option to head to MLS, but insisted that New York wouldn't be involved.

More information to come.

DONE! Bradley to Toronto FC (UPDATES)

Via Transfersblog.com

Taylor Twellman has dropped a bomb right here. A big bomb. Maybe bigger than Dempsey coming to MLS.

Could Michael Bradley be heading back to MLS at the age of 26?

More to come.

(Update 1): Twitter @ASRomaPress say that Roma is asking for something around 6-8 million euros while Toronto FC has offered 4. Negotiations are ongoing but talks are heating up. Link here.

(Update 2): TheStar.com reporting Toronto will spend $100 million dollars on both trasnsfer fees and salary on Defoe and Bradley. Link here.

(Update 3): Reliable David Amoyal (Twitter: @DavidAmoyal) has said that Bradley turned down a move to Chievo Verona last week and still has many European suitors despite this news.

(Update 4): Twitter: @DougMacESPN reports Bradley to Toronto is finalized. More information soon.

Bradley deal will be 5 or 6 years, around $6.5 million. Via Twitter: @JefferyCarlisle Link here.

(Update 5): Wow, Gab Marcotti on ESPNFC saying the transfer fee will be around $10 million.

(Update 6): MLS Transfers has been told via a league source that within the past few hours that Roma were looking to only loan Bradley but Toronto FO scoffed. Pressure from Bradley's agent, Ron Waxman helped the deal go through.

(Update 7): Hearing that the deal is not done just yet. Hold ups are due to Roma seeking other clubs to try to raise the transfer price. David Amoyal reporting German clubs Wolfsburg and Werder Bremen also interested. Link here.

(Update 8): Per Bradley's agency, Bradley to Toronto is complete! Link here.

Interview: Now in US National Team camp, Chris Klute focuses on future

Via Rantsports.com

September 12, 2012. That's when it seemingly all changed for Chris Klute. After a few months of solid performances with NASL's Atlanta Silverbacks, he was loaned to the Colorado Rapids for the rest of the 2012 season and the full 2013 season.

After a breakout year which saw Klute play 2,696 mintues and have 7 assists, he had the opportunity to train at Everton this offseason.

"Training at Everton was a great learning experience, I was able to learn a lot about the soccer culture and the style of play in Europe." said the 23 year old. "It was the type of experience where I was able to evaluate myself as a player and see where I would like to improve and better myself as a player."

Though Chris became one of the star defenders in the league, he was quick to nudge off the notion of a sophomore slump. "Once the season ended I've been taking care of my body, continuing to work out and maintaining a healthy diet. I'm excited for the MLS 2014 season to get back on the field."

Some of Klute's personal goals for next season are to continuously improve on all aspects on the field. "(I want to) continue improving as a defender, working with my teammates to continue what we started last season, and get a few more assists than this past season."

When asked where he sees himself in 5 years, Klute was honest. "Continuing to improve to be the best player I can be." What about if the opportunity arose to play in another country? "If other opportunities arise, I'd be willing to consider playing overseas."

Klute's development into become one of the best left backs in America keeps churning along as Chris was called into the US National Team's January camp. Many are hoping to see Chris in game action against South Korea on February 1st, and hopefully making his way into the full national team picture. If Chris shines, could we be seeing him in Brazil? That may be 6 months away but let's just say, the future looks bright.

-Marc Kusant (@TheRedestBull)

The Jermaine Defoe Chronicles: Update on transfer to Toronto

Via Wikipedia.com 

This article will be updated with Jermaine Defoe news throughout the next few weeks so keep checking back for more details:

Monday January 6, 2014

Two sources with connections to national soccer newspapers and websites have told MLS Transfers that Toronto front office has been in contact with Tottenham this week as they try to figure out a deal for forward Jermaine Defoe. One source said the stumbling point is not the transfer fee, but when Defoe will arrive. Tottenham want him until June while Toronto want him as soon as possible. Tottenham are willing to bend the date depending on where they are in the table come late January but, could potentially want more money should he come sooner than June.

As for Defoe himself, it is not known what his thoughts are at this time but the other source has told MLS Transfers that he has heard that Defoe is willing to come to Toronto, even if that might mean not making an appearance in the 2014 World Cup for England.

Close associate, David Amoyal (Twitter: @DavidAmoyal) has reported on the reliable website gianlucadimarzio.com, that Defoe to Toronto is a done deal. Link here.

Kurtis Larson of the Toronto Sun also confirmed the Defoe signing three weeks ago. Link here.

In the mean time, Tim Sherwood, Tottenham Hotspur manager has said that Defoe will be back to full time training with the club hopefully sometime next week. In the meantime, Defoe will be gaining match fitness with an eye towards more playing time.

Defoe has been linked to Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion in the past few weeks as well.

Tuesday January 7, 2014

Grant Wahl's recent article on Defoe highlight's that the deal isn't done, but close. You can find that article here.

Wednesday January 8, 2014

(Update 1) Luke Wileman confirms that Defoe will be arriving in Canada this weekend to complete the transfer to Toronto FC. Link here.

Toronto FC twitter account says, "It's a Bloody Big Deal" Youtube link here.

(Update 2) Looks like Defoe could be heading back to England on loan. MLS Transfer source is gathering more information of this but here is more on the potential deal here.

(Update 3) MLS Transfers has learned through a source in the league office that Jermaine Defoe is scheduled to arrive in Toronto on Saturday January 11, 2013 and sign his papers either that day, or Sunday should negotiations go a little longer. Defoe will be presented to the media on January 13, 2013. Deofe will then leave either that Monday or Tuesday and head back to Tottenham where he will stay until the beginning of March. He will rejoin the club before it's first game on March 15.

TheStar.com has reported similar information, stating Defoe will return to Canada on March 1. Link here.

Rumors from across the pond

Via Telegraph.co.uk

According to The Daily Mail:

- Toronto FC are set to announce Jermaine Defoe sometime during the week.

- Toronto's Richard Eckersley has offers from both LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls but could be heading to the Championship.

- Chelsea's Michael Essien could be heading to MLS after comments made by his agent this past week.

Oh, the silly season is upon us.

Rumor: Toronto defender on trading block

Via Onthefire.com

A source with connections to Toronto FC has informed MLS Transfers that 22 year old defender Gale Agbossoumonde is on the trading block.

After playing in only 13 games this season, the source says management aren't quite as high on him as they first were and they plan on to cash on his relative young age and potential.

While nothing is done yet, the source suggests that there are a few interested teams.

More information to come.

Rumor: Red Bulls still eyeing right back Paul Connolly

Via Dailymail.co.uk

A source with connections to the Red Bulls has told MLS Transfers that the New York Red Bulls are looking into signing 30 year old Paul Connolly.

This is not the first time the club have been linked to Connolly, as Sky Sports reported this summer that the New York side were looking to lure the Englishman to the States.

Connolly signed a deal with Millwall that ends in January, making this a free transfer should he join. He will end his 4 month stint with Millwall playing in 4 games over 238 minutes. 

Connolly also had an injury in late October  which sidelined him for a month.

Good fit for New York? Comment below to let us know you opinions. 

Rumor: Bob Bradley ready to invade MLS talent

Via WorldSoccerTalk.com

Bob Bradley was introduced as head coach of Norwegian side Stabaek yesterday but has already been hot on the trail of recruiting new players to his squad.

A source who requested anonymity has told MLS Transfers that Bradley or someone in the Stabaek camp has "put out feelers" to a former US International and an up and coming midfielder in MLS.

A request was made by the source to not name the players at hand, for they could be at breech with their contracts.

More information to come.

Rumor: Source says French club "are out" of Agudelo sweepstakes

Via theshinguardian.com

Where in the world is Juan Agudelo? Juan tweeted out a picture today of packed bags as it seems likely that he is moving to a new club. One place we know where he's not going: France.

A source from France has contacted MLS Transfers to let the news out that French side FC Lorient "are out" of the Agudelo madness.

After a series of emails, a lose translation of how it went down:

"Lorient are a known as a feeder club. They wanted Juan Agudelo to groom him for a few years to sell him on, as his value would be high after a year or so. They contacted Clive Jagger (Agudelo's mentor) before Christmas and he told the club he would talk to Juan. Clive let the club know earlier today that Juan already signed for another club outside of the country."

More news to come.

What is MLS getting out of KickTV?

Via Youtube.com

KickTV is a venture between Google, Bedrocket Media Ventures and Soccer United Marekting (SUM), the advertising endeavor of MLS. Launched March 2, 2012, the KickTV Youtube channel has brought viewers soccer mixed with pop culture to a surprisingly fun platform. But, what has MLS gotten out of investing in the channel?

This past week, there has been 11 videos uploaded and  197,494 views (as of 1:45 pm EST) on the main channel. The focus of the videos has been on a variety of soccer related items such as, Cristiano Ronaldo going for a good 2014, Goals from the video game FIFA 14 and a video entitled, "Mariah Carey & John Guidetti Duet & More". The singular MLS related video of the week has been a Tim Cahill goal compilation. Granted, it is the MLS offseason but I'm sure this is not exactly what SUM had in mind when investing in the channel. Looking at the different playlists on channel, KickTV has an MLS highlights package every weekend and that's the only main MLS package on the channel. Clearly we don't know how much SUM has invested in the channel but what about more MLS related segments during the season?  From a mere league wide promotions perspective, this is needed.

One thing that seems certain is that SUM is not always working hand and hand with MLS and MLSsoccer.com more specifically. The league website creates original content almost daily during the regular season, something KickTV doesn't do and could thrive with for its 785,00 subscribers. It seems the channel leans towards an American eye on international based soccer, and this is something that needs to be addressed for MLS's sake.

Another thought:  NBCSports must be limiting KickTV somehow as they produce MLS 36, a showcase of some of the leagues players for the 36 hours, pre, during, and post-games throughout the season. A show like this on the channel would broaden both the marketing and personality of the league. By showing the personality of the players (Known funny man Dax McCarty has been featured) the brand of the league expands. If this show was on KickTV, the MLS brand would be aimed towards the world-soccer-fan-only demographic, something that NBCSports surely doesn't have at its disposal despite its large viewer numbers.

In a business sense, I believe the league is looking at this video channel as more of an exposure situation than to get any monetary return on investment. Not saying KickTV isn't making money, (because it is. They have a full time staff and advertising on all of their videos) but the main goal of the endeavor seems to be drawing more attention to the league. "Kick was created as a global channel that allows us to tell they key soccer stories of the day and to broaden our voice beyond the M.L.S. channel." said Chris Schlosser, general manager of MLS Digital to the New York Times in a 2012 interview.

Global channel? Yes. Broaden the voice of MLS beyond the MLS channel? How is KickTV doing that? The quick answer is, they're not.

So I ask the question again, what is MLS getting out of KickTV?

Any thoughts or comments are appreciated below in the comments section.

-Marc Kusant (@TheRedestBull)

Source: Camilo deal almost done, Whitecaps seemingly not at fault (UPDATE)

Via blog.eastbay.com

Reports surfaced this afternoon of Camilo leaving Vancouver Whitecaps for Mexican side Queretaro. While this report has credibility, a source with connections to Vancouver has said that deal is not officially done, but expects to be finalized within the next 24 hours as some specifics need to be worked on.

The source also said this deal came about when Camilo's agent started talks with the Mexican club almost three weeks ago. Although the Whitecaps wanted him to stay, Camilo wants to move to help launch his career. While the source said they wouldn't discuss the specific number, they said the salary Camilo wanted to stay in Vancouver was more than four times the amount he earned this past season (Camilo made a guaranteed salary of $247,500).

UPDATE: Seems like this could be contract leverage, as @PeteSchaad (Twitter) says that Whitecaps communication department is saying that there is no truth in the rumor.