The Colorado Rapids were very active in the waning moments of the transfer window.
Just hours before the close of the transfer window, the Rapids completed two separate deals. The Western Conference club sent General Allocation Money to the Union in exchange for veteran Sebastien Le Toux before trading Luis Solignac to the Fire for the very same roster mechanism.
In Le Toux, the Rapids acquire a longtime MLS veteran, one that has played a total of 236 career MLS games. Throughout his career, Le Toux represented the Seattle Sounders, Union, Vancouver Whitecaps and New York Red Bulls before returning to the Union for a second stint that began in 2013. This season, Le Toux has featured in 21 games, scoring two goals.
“Sebastien’s track record in MLS speaks for itself,” said Paul Bravo, Rapids Technical Director and VP of Soccer Operations. “He is a proven goalscorer and creator. We look forward to welcoming him to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.”
“Sebastien has been a wonderful servant to the Philadelphia Union and we cannot thank him enough for his exemplary time and commitment,” added Union Sporting Director Earnie Stewart. “We want to wish him the best of luck in Colorado and in his future endeavors.”
Meanwhile, Solignac departs the Rapids and joins the Fire. The 25-year-old forward three goals and tallied four assists during his Rapids stay, which proved to be 33 games spread across two seasons. All three of goals have come in 2016, although Solignac lost his starting spot with the team in mid-June.
“Simply, Luis is a good footballer,” said Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez. “He has soft feet, is mobile, understands how to play in combination and is familiar with the demands of the League. We expect him to contribute right away.”
What do you think of the deals? How will Le Toux and Solignac fit with their new clubs?
Share your thoughts below.
It’s basically a “win now” move. The Rapids are a good team, and the management wants to push for a title, taking an older, but proven scorer, even if its just for this year.
I love Le Toux, absolutely the only legend of the Union, I’ve hung out with him a few times over the years and he’s a great guy.
But I can’t believe someone paid for him. Wasn’t his contract up at the end of the season? He would have gone on a free. But hey if the Rapids need someone like him now then ok. The guy loves the game, is still serviceable, and is a great guy.
Last time Le Toux was in the West, he only stayed a few months before being traded back east. Will he be any happier in the west this time?
it reeks of moves made just so you can say you made moves.
It’s just two teams off-loading players they don’t need any more, with two other teams recognizing a good deal/potential.
All teams involved (except the Fire) have recently filled their ‘headline moves’ quota to keep their fans happy if that’s what you’re worried about.