Oct 27, 2021; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Ecuador forward Michael Estrada (11) and Mexico defender Haret Ortaga (13) fight for the ball in the second half at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
D.C. United acquired Ecuadoran striker Michael Estrada on loan for the 2022 season from Toluca of Liga MX.
The deal announced Tuesday includes an option for a permanent transfer after completion of the loan.
“Bolstering our attack has been a priority for us in the offseason and we’ve been closely monitoring the possibility of bringing Michael to the club,” president of soccer operations Dave Kasper said in a release. “He is a dangerous No. 9 who we believe will be a great addition to our attacking unit, and we’re excited to get him on loan for the 2022 season.”
Estrada, 25, has tallied 17 goals and six assists in 66 matches since joining Toluca in 2020.
“We believe Michael has the quality to be a top goal scorer in our league. He’s a dynamic player who brings quality on the ball and an aerial presence and threat,” general manager Lucy Rushton said in a release. “His capacity to break lines with his pace and power, as well as his ability to drop-in and link-up play fits perfectly into our style of play and our profile for a player in this position.”
Internationally, Estrada has eight goals and five assists in 28 caps with Ecuador’s national team.
D.C. United open the 2022 MLS season at home against Charlotte FC on Feb. 26.
–Field Level Media