In an effort to dig itself out of the MLS Eastern Conference cellar, D.C. United announced the signing of Paul Arriola on Thursday, the club breaking its transfer fee record to acquire the U.S. national team midfielder.
#HesHere #DCU https://t.co/daylEmn7Iu pic.twitter.com/DO4uWUEHE7
— D.C. United (@dcunited) August 10, 2017
According to Steven Goff of The Washington Post, United paid over $3 million to purchase the 22-year old from Mexican club Tijuana, well beyond the previous high of $1.4 million paid to purchase midfielder Luciano Acosta last year.
In addition, United sent allocation money to the Los Angeles Galaxy, who previously owned Arriola’s MLS rights.
“We have had an eye on Paul for a while, and his intelligence, pace, technical ability and bright future with the national team make him a perfect fit for this organization as we continue to bolster our roster,” United general manager and VP of soccer operations Dave Kaspar said in a statement.
Arriola played four seasons at Tijuana, making over 100 appearances in all competitions for the club. Internationally, Arriola has 11 caps with the U.S. men’s national team, becoming a regular starter during the team’s CONCACAF Gold Cup-winning campaign this summer.
Along with Arriola, United revamped its roster with the signings of midfielders Zoltan Stiebler and Russell Canouse and defender Bruno Miranda ahead of MLS’s Aug. 9 transfer deadline.
United currently sits in last place in the Eastern Conference, 13 points outside of playoff contention, and will hope the new signings can reignite the team’s season ahead of next year’s move to Audi Field.
Arriola, who will wear No. 13 for United, is expected to suit up for Saturday’s home game against Real Saint Lake, once his international transfer certificate is approved.
• Josh Luckenbaugh can be reached at jluckenbaugh@washingtontimes.com.
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