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Chivas deals Nagamura to Sporting KC

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Photo by David Bernal/ISIphotos.com

Sporting Kansas City's busy week continues.

After dealing Davy Arnaud to Montreal to re-acquire Seth Sinovic and re-signing goalkeeper Jimmy Nielsen, Sporting KC added depth to its midfield Tuesday, acquiring Paulo Nagamura from Chivas USA in exchange for a first-round pick in the 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft.

It's the second swap between the two clubs in as many weeks, after Sporting KC dealt the rights to winger Ryan Smith to Chivas in exchange for a first- and third-round pick in the 2012 Supplemental Draft. That first-round selection goes back to Chivas as part of the trade, and Sporting KC will retain its natural first-round pick in the draft.

Nagamura has been a capable player in MLS when healthy, but his long-term fitness remains a question. He was limited to 11 apperances in 2011, but if fit, he'll provide a skillful, physical element to SKC's midfield. The move also clears significant cap space for Chivas, who were on the hook for $230,500 for Nagamura's services last season.

Do you think Nagamura will be able to contribute in Kansas City? Do you like the deal?

Share your thoughts below.

Comments

  1. The trade was basically Smith (who had burned his bridges in KC was never going to play another minute there) for Nagamura and a 3rd round draft pick. Giving up something of no value to SKC for a player and draft pick is a no brainer for SKC.

    The deal on SKC’s side should be evaluated as if the league had free agency. If Nagamura plays enough minutes to justify his salary, then it will be a good move (even if Smith has an MVP-type year for Chivas).

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  2. Good defensive sub, but what they need is a playmaker to feed the strikers. Zusi is a hustle/set piece guy that would be better serving crosses on the right.

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  3. Exactly what I was thinking. When healthy, Nagamura’s a good guy to have on the squad, but not $230K/yr good, especially if he’s injury prone. Not sure who got the best deal here, but I’m thinking it’s Chivas USA.

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