Charlotte FC finalizing deal to sign USA and Fulham defender - report
- Tim Ream is heading to Major League Soccer
- Ream made 312 appearances for Fulham
- The defender is reportedly on his way to Charlotte to finalize details
By Max Mallow
Charlotte FC is close to finalizing a deal to sign United States international and Fulham defender Tim Ream, according to a report from GiveMeSports' Tom Bogert.
Ream is reportedly on his way to Charlotte to finalize his move with hopes of having the deal completed in the coming days. Ream was first linked with a move to Major League Soccer back in June ahead of Copa America. The defender was named to Gregg Berhalter's squad with Ream appearing in all three group stage games.
The United States was unceremoniously eliminated in the group stage on home soil after losses to Panama and Uruguay. The tournament performance led the United States Soccer Federation to relieve Berhalter of his head coaching duties.
Tim Ream is heading back to Major League Soccer
Ream first moved to Fulham back in 2015 and has made 312 appearances for the English club. Alongside international teammate Antonee Robinson, Ream enjoyed a successful career at Craven Cottage. At 36-years-old, Ream returns to MLS after first breaking through with New York Red Bulls before moving to Bolton Wanderers.
Depending on when the move is completed, Ream could make his debut against his former team on Aug. 24. Charlotte was eliminated from Leagues Cup after a penalty shootout victory against Cruz Azul wasn't enough to get the team over the line.
The 2022 expansion team is currently sixth in the MLS Eastern Conference, good enough for a guaranteed MLS Cup playoff spot. Charlotte has the league's second best defense so far this season conceding 27 goals in 25 matches. The only team with a better defensive record is the defending champions Columbus Crew.
Ream will bring a wealth of experience to Charlotte's backline as the team pushes to climb up the standings for a better playoff seed. The team is just one point behind New York City FC and four points off the Red Bulls. A victory in the team's return MLS match would see that point gap close significantly.
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