Real Salt Lake sign free agent Johan Kappelhof

Real Salt Lake signed free agent defender Johan Kappelhof ahead of the 2022 Major League Soccer season with a club option for 2023. 

The defender spent the previous five years with the Chicago Fire before departing the club during the off-season. 

“We’re excited to welcome Johan to Real Salt Lake,” technical director Kurt Schmid said in a release. 

“Johan’s experience in Major League Soccer speaks for itself and adds value to our roster. His veteran presence and understanding of what it takes to compete in this league will only enhance the competition within our roster, specifically our backline.”

The defender joins Real Salt Lake with copious MLS experience. Kappelhof recorded 10 assists in 147 regular-season games for the Chicago Fire. 

Before coming to the American league, Kappelhof featured extensively for Dutch Eredivisie side Groningen. He also developed in Ajax’s academy. Now, he joins Justen Glad and Marcelo Silva for RSL’s backline.

The Western Conference team kicks off the 2022 MLS season on February 27 when visiting the Houston Dynamo.