Harrison, NJ (Sports Network) - Red Bull New York traded United States forward
Juan Agudelo to Chivas USA on Thursday for defender Heath Pearce.
The 19-year-old Agudelo has already played 15 times for the United States over
the last two years since his senior debut in November 2010. He played 33 games
in parts of three seasons with New York, scoring six goals.
"I am certainly excited to have Juan Agudelo joining our team, he's a dynamic
young forward who has an incredible future ahead of him," Chivas manager Robin
Fraser said.
Agudelo came at a price as Pearce, who has 35 caps for the United States, will
depart for New York. A member of the American player pool since 2005, Pearce
has experience in Denmark and Germany, and played 40 games for Chivas.
"The caveat is you have to give up an asset to get an asset," Fraser admitted,
"so in order to get a player like Juan you have to give up a very good player
like Heath."
Agudelo was little used in New York, but should immediately find a larger role
with Chivas USA. He scored in his United States debut, becoming the youngest
player to ever score for the senior team.
Pearce has been a rock defensively for Chivas, starting 29 of 30 matches last
season and all 10 appearances this season.
"Heath is a very talented and versatile defender who will bring immediate
experience to our defense," New York General Manager and Sporting Director
Erik Soler said. "It was a deal we could not turn down."
Chivas USA also sent allocation money and future considerations to New York as
part of the trade. Per Major League Soccer and team policy, details of the
trade were not revealed.
The Sports Network