25 March 2008
Seattle Already Signing Players
Posted by drew.epperley under: MLS; News and Rumors; Seattle Sounders FC .
Interesting bit of news today out of the Emerald City. Despite still currently being a USL-1 club and being a year away from becoming a MLS club, MLS Seattle (or Seattle FC) has already inked a deal with a current Sounders to play in the MLS next year and a few years following.
Sebastian Le Toux has signed a four year deal with the MLS to play for the expansion squad next year when they enter the league as the 15th club.
The Frenchmen was the Golden Boot winner for most goals in the 2007 US Open Cup. He won the USL-1 league MVP award and finished tied in goals scored.
Interesting note about Le Toux, he was on trial with FC Dallas last year but was unable to secure a roster spot. Honestly I think Dallas will regret not getting him in the long run here. Sure he didn’t fit their roster last year but I could be willing to bet that Steve Morrow wishes he had signed him anyways.
The 24-year-old Frenchman was probably the biggest reason to Seattle’s success last year and he will be a key piece in their expansion process next year. Great move by this club to already tab a guy like him for next year.
Also, the club has reportedly signed 28-year-old Mexican forward Jesús Mendoza to a deal for next year. Mendoza will play with the Sounders this season and then like Le Toux join the club in their expansion season in the league.
Mendoza was on trial with Chicago and New York this winter before going to Seattle to join their club.
I think it is good to see that the MLS is letting this expansion club bring in players from the USL-1 side for next year. Its also smart of Seattle to go ahead and ink those players for next year. Getting players that fans in Seattle are use to will go a long way with this club’s success.
One Comment so far...
JesseMT Says:
27 March 2008 at 4:46 am.
If I remember correctly, Le Toux was a defender at his old club Lorient in France, and I doubt Dallas considered him as anything but a defense or midfield prospect. He really excelled in Seattle when Coach Schmetzer moved him up front. He plays like an energizer bunny up there and he’s a quality finisher too. Can’t wait to see him in MLS.
