Toronto Making Room For McBride Deal?

Toronto FC just traded first-round draft pick Pat Phelan to the New England Revolution for an international roster spot through 2010.

This very well could be a deal that could signify a possible deal with Chicago before long regarding US striker Brian McBride. Toronto makes up the roster space to get the room for a possible player that Chicago will be giving up.

What player might that be? Toronto had strong interest in Justin Mapp, while Wilman Conde would also be a good addition for Toronto. I’m still thinking they could/should go for a Chris Rolfe or Chad Barrett.

New England makes out very well in all of this by acquiring a versatile and highly-regarded rookie in Phelan, who can provide cover both in the back and in defensive midfield. Adding a defensive player like that to increase their depth going into the summer is a move I really like for the Revs, plus I am still pretty high on Phelan to be a quality player in this league.

It will be interesting to see what Mo Johnston has under his sleeve now and just what the Fire will give up for the chance to add McBride. I think to say that Toronto doesn’t have leverage in this deal is a bit silly but it is MLS we are dealing with here when it comes to a high profile player.