According to Goal.com, former New England Revolution forward, Juan Agudelo, is close to signing with the Revs. The move, if it does happen, would be a very needed boost for the Revolution, especially when the club is desperate for attacking options up top.
All reports from Goal.com hint that Agudelo turned down a potential move to German club, 1860 Munich and is negotiating with New England, who still own his MLS rights, about returning in the very near future. After the steady in-flex of USMNT players coming to MLS during the past two months, many wondered if Agudelo would also make the move home.
Back at it soon. #Window
— Juan Sebastian Agudelo (@JuanAgudelo) January 23, 2015
Sure, it is just a tweet, but after it was announced that he was not going to 1860 Munich and he was is talks with New England, the next step seemed pretty obvious. From all accounts of fans on Twitter, it seems like everyone would gladly welcome Agudelo back to New England.
During his time in MLS, Agudelo tallied 18 goals and dished out seven assists while playing for both New England, Chivas USA and the New York Red Bulls. Ironically enough, his best stint in MLS came while he was a part of New England. Back in 2013, Agudelo scored seven goals and added one assist.
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Agudelo left the Revolution as a free agent for English Premier League club Stoke City after the 2013 MLS season, but was unable to secure a work permit needed to play in England. He was then loaned to Dutch side FC Utrecht, but his time there came to an end last spring. Stoke again unsuccessfully attempted to get Agudelo a work permit this summer and the two parted ways after the failed appeal.
Since failing to sign with Stoke City twice, Agudelo hung in limbo for some time. When news of him training with Orlando City SC emerged during the summer, fans thought he could be one of their first signings. Since that obviously did not happen, it is believed that he simply wanted to stay in shape.
One must wonder though, how Agudelo would have actually fared for Stoke City if his work permit would actually have gone through. Fans know that Jozy Altidore failed to make a name for himself while in the EPL, along with Brek Shea, both now back in MLS. Do I sense a pattern here or is that just me?
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Regards of what happened in the past, Revolution fans need to be very hopeful that this deal goes through for the Agudelo. Combine his young age, 22, his skill, and his experience, both domestically and internationally, and you have a very talented player who could make a lot of great things happen this season.
Agudelo would have the chance to pair with former USMNT teammate, Charlie Davies as well, if he signs with New England. Davies struggled during the regular season last year, but made a name for himself again during the playoffs, where he scored four goals.
New England must get consistent play from their forwards if a return trip to MLS Cup is desired. Signing Agudelo is a very positive step in making that dream a reality.