Portland Timbers re-sign Josecarlos Van Rankin on loan from Chivas

The Portland Timbers have re-signed defender Josecarlos Van Rankin on loan from Liga MX side Chivas, the club announced Tuesday.

Van Rankin was a big hit in Portland last season, playing 41 times for the club across all competitions, providing six assists as they went all the way to the MLS Cup final before eventually losing to NYCFC on penalties.

The Timbers have now secured the services of the one-time Mexico international again through the summer, with an option to extend the loan until the end of the 2022 season. Portland also have an option to make the transfer permanent.

“We are delighted to welcome Josecarlos back to the club. He was a very good addition to our backline last season, and a phenomenal addition to the locker room,” general manager and president of soccer Gavin Wilkinson said in a press release.

“We’re thankful we were able to collaborate with Chivas to make this happen and look forward to working with a talented player and great person like Josecarlos.”

Van Rankin mainly figured as a right-back during his 33 MLS regular-season games last year, but did fill in on the left flank when required, adding important depth and versatility in key areas for head coach Giovanni Savarese.

“Josecarlos is an important player for our locker room,” the Venezuelan said. “He has adapted within the group perfectly, and he understands our system on the field which is extremely valuable. We’re excited to have him back with the team.”

Alongside Van Rankin, the Timbers are expected to announce the return of key playmaker Sebastian Blanco in the coming days.