By IVES GALARCEP
FORT LAUDERDALE- Toronto FC figured to have control of the 2013 MLS Draft as holders of two of the top three picks, and it appears the team is ready to pull off a series of moves to try and maximize that advantageous position.
Multiple sources have confirmed to SBI that TFC is preparing to trade the No. 1 overall pick in the draft to the Colorado Rapids in a blockbuster that would land the Canadian club the No. 6 overall pick and No. 25 overall pick, as well as approximately $100,000 in allocation money.
The deal came together on Tuesday, with two sources telling SBI on Tuesday night that the deal has been agreed to. Other sources with knowledge of the negotiation tell SBI that the deals have yet to be finalized, but are in the works.
TFC isn’t stopping there. Sources tell SBI that Toronto plans on turning around and sending the No. 6 and No. 25 picks to the Vancouver Whitecaps to move up to the No. 5 spot, where Toronto FC would be expected to select Boston College midfielder Kyle Bekker.
If they do succeed in landing the No. 1 overall pick, the Rapids are expected to select U.S. Under-20 national team defender Walker Zimmerman. Louisville defender Andrew Farrell is widely regarded as the top prospect in the draft, but sources have told SBI for some time that the Rapids prefer Zimmerman and have made it a point to try and secure his services.
The maneuvering could leave TFC with a serious windfall. If things fall according to plan, TFC could wind up with Farrell and Bekker, as well as crucial allocation money to help with the team’s salary cap situation.
The Rapids are doing some serious wheeling and dealing as well. Sources tell SBI that Colorado has also lined up a trade to secure another first-round pick and allocation money in exchange for veteran midfielder Jeff Larentowicz. The trade partner for that deal has yet to be identified.
What do you think of these moves? Impressed with Toronto FC’s maneuvering? Think the Rapids overpaid for the top pick, or think it’s worth it to snag a young standout like Zimmerman?
Share your thoughts below.