The Sounders aren’t commenting, but several web sites are reporting that the club has agreed to a deal to send all-time leading scorer Fredy Montero on a six-month loan to the Colombian club Millonarios. According to the web sites Futbol Red and Soccer By Ives, the deal includes an option for a six-month extension of the loan as well as a $4.5 million purchase option.
Montero’s departure from the Sounders, for whom he has starred since 2009, is not a surprise, especially considering his tepid playoff performances. Montero has yet to score a goal in 10 postseason matches (he has two assists) and was the first player subbed off the field in two Western Conference playoff games against the Los Angeles Galaxy in November.
In addition, Montero’s career in Seattle has been marked by periods of inconsistency and poor production. His departure would give the Sounders the financial flexibility to sign another high-priced designated player.
Montero joined the Sounders in their expansion season of 2009 and led the club in scoring every year until the last one, when he finished second to Eddie Johnson. During his tenure, Montero tallied 47 goals and added 34 assists in MLS play and 60 goals across all competitions. He became a fan favorite immediately after scoring two goals in the Sounders’ inaugural game, a 3-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls.
Montero has often expressed a desire to play for a top European club, and a loan to Millonarios, the reigning Colombian league champion that will take part in the upcoming Copa Libertadores tournament, could hasten that process.
Montero is a two-time MLS All-Star and was named 2009 Newcomer of the Year. He established a club record with 33 points in the 2011 MLS season.
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1 Comment
When Fredy was focused, he’s an MVP caliber player. Even Sport Illustrated said that at the beginning of the season. Problem was he couldn’t be depended on when it counted. Only concern is with him gone how will that affect the team? Does the offense go south with his departure? Look at the Dallas Cowboys when Terrell Owens left them for example. This will be a real test for Adrian Hanauer now.