Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Revs in Market for Designated Player?

The Boston Globe reported today that the Revolution are continuing to speak with clubs overseas about the possibility of adding a foreign player to their roster. Evidently, the Revs have been offered an undetermined player from Spanish side Deportivo Alaves. Revolution coach Steve Nicol didn't speak directly to that situation but did concede that the organization is still in the market for a ringer.

"We're looking, but it's always the same - it's never done until it's done," Nicol told the Globe's Frank Dell'Apa.

The Revs appear to be in good financial shape should they decide to seriously pursue a certain player. New England is in the midst of reaping a four million dollar windfall from the transfer of Clint Dempsey to Fulham in the English Premier League. The Revs also have two designated player spots open, meaning they are still allowed to sign two more players outside the salary cap.

David Beckham (Galaxy) and Claudio Reyna (Red Bulls) are two of the more notable designated player signings in MLS so far. Recently, the Red Bulls added striker Juan Pablo Angel of Columbia to fill another designated player slot. The Columbus Crew also announced the singing of Guillermo Barros Schelotto of Argentina.

While the Revs may feel some pressure to add a foreign talent in order to keep pace with their Eastern Conference foes, it's important to note that Nicol has been reluctant to add expensive overseas players in the past.