Philadelphia Union Acquire Steven Vitoria On Loan
The Philadelphia Union have acquired center back, Steven Vitoria, on loan from Portuguese side, Benfica, the team announced on Monday. The deal is a one year loan that includes a purchase option. Vitoria will add some much needed size to the back line of the Union.
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Interest in the 6’5” center back was first reported by Kevin Kinkead of CBS Philly where he reported the Union were very close to acquiring Vitoria. With this deal now complete, Vitoria will step right into the back line and replace Carlos Valdes.
If you remember, Valdes was loaned out once again back down to South America. For Philadelphia Union fans, having Valdes leave was a pretty welcome sight as there was always uncertainty surrounding him while he was here. Since his return last summer, it was clear he wanted to be back in South America.
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Now the Union have a replacement for Valdes, and one that will definitely get the fan base excited. For Jim Curtin, defense is always going to be the number one priority, so adding some like Vitoria really solidifies the back line. Vitoria adds some needed size back there that will be extremely valuable in defending set pieces.
The Philadelphia Union have had trouble defending set pieces so hopefully Vitoria can help sure that up, as well as add some strength to attacking set pieces as well. After signing with Benfica, Vitoria has not found the playing time he has wanted.
So Vitoria will be excited to become a regular starter and possibly even get into the Canadian National Team discussion. As a Union fan, I am very excited to see what Steven Vitoria can bring to the team. He fills a huge need, especially since Valdes is gone now.
Now the Union need to turn their focus to finding a true left back and striker. If they can do that before the season starts in a little under a month (providing the CBA negotiations go well), this team will definitely look better than they did last year.
What do you think about Steven Vitoria signing with the Union? Let us know below.
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