Portland Timbers sign Designated Player Diego Valeri

Portland’s already strong offseason got a little bit stronger as the club inked playmaker Diego Valeri to a DP deal. The midfielder has three caps with the Argentinian national team and recently captained Club Atlético Lanús in the country’s first division.

He could be exactly what the club needs: “[I consider myself] a number ten — a midfielder who is creative, providing assists; I like scoring goals, making plays. These are my characteristics. A modern number ten,” he said in a Q&A with the club’s website.

The management is also pleased with their signing, who will come on loan at first and occupy an international slot. “Valeri is a tremendous acquisition and his desire to join the Portland Timbers was an integral part in getting him on loan,” said Timbers general manager Gavin Wilkinson. “At his age and with his ability, we expect to be in a position to purchase this player and make him a permanent fixture in Portland.”

Valeri is the type of player who can fit into Caleb Porter’s attacking, possession-oriented style.

Timbers’ owner Merritt Paulson lands the last word:

I think Diego Valeri is a great fit for us and a terrific addition to the league…but that will be it on “hype” from me. Welcome, Diego!

— Merritt Paulson (@MerrittPaulson) January 10, 2013

Quick note: we don’t do pure “rentals”. terms are pre negotiated to acquire. Thanks to J Morales (RSL) for help selling Diego Valeri on MLS

— Merritt Paulson (@MerrittPaulson) January 10, 2013