MLS transfer roundup: LAFC loan Mario Gonzalez, Charlotte FC sign Crown Legacy duo
- Two clubs utilize loan deals to make moves happen
- Charlotte sign two prospective players to their first team
- Clubs have already begun pre-season training ahead of Opening Day in February
The MLS transfer world continues to roll in as the 2024 campaign gets closer and closer.
Two clubs have acquired and transferred out players on loan deals, while another side made moves for the future by signing two players from their second team.
Here's all the latest transfer news around MLS you may have missed.
1. Jamir Berdecio joins Philadelphia Union on loan from Oriente Petrolero
Philadelphia Union have signed defender Jamir Berdecio on loan from Oriente Petrolero.
"Jamir is a young and very talented player," Philadelphia sporting director Ernst Tanner said in a release.
"We've watched his play in both the Bolivian Primera Division and Bolivia's U-23 national team and were impressed with his potential. We look forward to seeing how he integrates into our system of play and contributing to his development."
Philadelphia have a buy-option in the deal for the former Hajduk Split player who joins a defense that already boasts goalkeeper Andre Blake and center-backs Damion Lowe and Jakob Glesnes.
2. LAFC loan forward Mario Gonzalez to Sporting Gijon
Sporting Gijon have signed LAFC forward Mario Gonzalez on loan through June 2024. The deal also includes a purchase option for the 27-year-old.
Gonzalez joins a Sporting Gijon side that sit in third place in La Liga 2 with 36 points from 22 games played. He returns to his native Spain having managed one goal in 12 appearances after joining the Black and Gold in July 2023.
LAFC boss Steve Cherundolo will look to rely on Denis Bouanga and Stipe Biuk to find the back of the net until the Black and Gold bring in another forward to add to the attack.
3. Charlotte FC sign Chituru Odunze, Joao Pedro from Crown Legacy
Charlotte FC have signed Chituru Odunze and Joao Pedro from Crown Legacy, the club's MLS Next Pro affiliate.
Pedro joins the Crown on a deal through 2026 with an option for 2027. He notched five goal involvements as a defender in MLS Next Pro last term.
"Joao impressed us throughout his season with Crown Legacy FC and his ability to defend in multiple positions while also being an attacking threat makes JP a unique talent and highly-touted prospect. We are excited to continue investing in his development as he adds depth to our defensive core," Charlotte sporting director Zoran Krneta said in a release.
Odunze, a goalkeeper, joins the Eastern Conference team on a contract through 2027 with an option for 2028. The 21-year-old was part of the Leicester City academy before joining Crown Legacy in August.
"Chituru is a talented prospect that we were delighted to bring into our system with Crown Legacy FC last season," Krneta said.
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