Los Angeles FC has been wheeling and dealing over the last several days, and Bob Bradley’s side looks to be close to making another significant splash.
[ MORE: Christian Pulisic named USMNT Player of the Year ]
An MLS league source has confirmed to Pro Soccer Talk that Sporting CP’s Francisco Geraldes is close to becoming LAFC’s third and final Designated Player signing ahead of the club’s inaugural 2018 season.
[ MORE: LAFC confirms signing of young DP Diego Rossi ]
PST has learned that LAFC is in the final stages of acquiring Geraldes, who is currently on loan from Sporting with fellow Portuguese side Rio Ave.
LAFC announced the signing of Diego Rossi on Thursday, with the 19-year-old Uruguayan becoming the second-youngest DP in league history. Meanwhile, Carlos Vela occupies the club’s other DP slot, after an agreement was struck back in August to be the team’s first signing.
Being told by an MLS league source that #LAFC is in the final stages of acquiring its 3rd Designated Player... Francisco Geraldes of Sporting CP. The 22-year-old is currently on loan with Portuguese side Rio Ave. #MLS
— Matt Reed (@MattReedFutbol) December 14, 2017
Geraldes has started 11 matches this season for Rio, and scored one goal in league play.
The 22-year-old came up through Sporting’s academy system, and made his professional debut with Sporting B in 2013, before signing a contract with senior side Sporting CP two years later.
The young Portuguese midfielder has worked his way up the international ladder over recent years, making appearances with the Under-18, U-20 and U-21 national teams.