SDFC adds new players and makes big trades in MLS Expansion Draft
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San Diego FC added three players to its roster during the MLS Expansion Draft Wednesday night.
Why it matters: With its two other picks, SDFC selected and traded two players in exchange for another first-round pick in the upcoming MLS SuperDraft and more money to spend on a prospect's salary.
The youth-focused club's newest players are:
- Jasper Löffelsend, a fullback or midfielder from the Colorado Rapids
- Heine Bruseth, a midfielder from Orlando City SC
- Hamady Diop, a defender from Charlotte FC
What they're saying: "We had a lot of empty lines a few weeks ago and I think more of those are getting filled, so now we start to hone in on what are we missing," sporting director Tyler Heaps said at the selection show.
- They're considering what type of player, their age and how that fits into the salary and budget to set themselves up for immediate and future success, he said.
Follow the money: SDFC selected and traded two players for a total of $650,000 in general allocation money used for player salaries.
- $250,000 of that is conditional based on performance.
- The other $400,000 will be used to fund a starting centerback yet to be signed, head coach Mikey Varas said at the draft.
What's next: The club now has six picks in the Dec. 20 MLS SuperDraft — a pool of college players and other young talent.
Between the lines: On Monday, SDFC got an additional second-round pick and Colombian Forward Tomás Ángel from the LA Galaxy in exchange for $200,000.
- On Wednesday, SDFC also acquired defender Christopher McVey from D.C. United and goalkeeper CJ dos Santos from Inter Miami in exchange for money.
The intrigue: The club will unveil its inaugural jersey Friday morning with a launch party at the Eighteen Threads retail shop. The first 100 jerseys purchased get free customization.
- The weekend-long party continues with fan events, a 5v5 tournament and the final stop of the Chrome Ball Tour at Snapdragon Stadium.