The New York Red Bulls' search for a solid veteran defender have led them to a player with an impressive resume who just might be the center back the club has been looking for.
The Red Bulls have brought in former FC Barcelona and Real Madrid defender Albert Celades in for a trial in Argentina, where the club is currently training. Celades, 33, most recently played for Real Zaragoza, spending three seasons with the club, which was relegated to the Spanish second division during his stint there.
A versatile player who has played in a defensive midfield role as well as in central defense during his career, Celades is skillful, tough and experienced. Whether the Red Bulls can actually afford him remains to be seen, but the fact that he has actually joined the team in camp speaks volumes.
Celades wasn't the only player to join the Red Bulls in Argentina.
The club has also brought in Mexican defender Jaime Duran and Trinidad & Tobago defender Akile Edwards. A former Mexican Under-23 national team player, Duran is coming off a failed stint with Greek club Skoda Xanthi after leaving Mexican club Morelia for Europe. Duran enjoyed a lengthy spell with Mexican club Atlas at the start of his career.
Edwards, 23, is another left back prospect for a club desperate to add a left back before the start of the season. Sources have told SBI that talks with Salvadorean left back Alberto Pacheco are ongoing.
What do you think of this group of trialists? Like the idea of the Red Bulls adding Celades? Hoping the club can land a central defender AND a left back before the start of the season?
Share your thoughts below.