GETTING CLOSER MLS looks to finalize Delgado deal for Bulls
By Michael Lewis
BigAppleSoccer.com Editor
MLS is trying to put the final touches on a deal that would allow Ecuadorian international star striker and occasional bad boy Agustin Delgado to join the New York Red Bulls, according to league-wide sources.
Several news reports emanating from Delgado's native country have the 32-year-old forward already signed by the league, but that could not be confirmed by the Red Bulls or MLS officials Wednesday night.
But a reliable source said MLS was working on finalizing the deal.
One of the stumbling blocks to the signing was the 6-3, 178-lb. Delgado's suspension by the Ecuadorian Football Federation for his role during in brawl in LDU Quito's 1-1 draw with Barcelona in an Ecuador First Division match Dec. 17.
MLS and the Red Bulls were awaiting FIFA’s ruling whether Delgado was banned just in his country or worldwide.
Nicknamed Tin, Delgado has been hampered by a series of injuries during his career, mostly knee and back problems. He recently was in the U.S. for a Red Bulls medical exam, according to sources.
Delgado, Ecuador's all-time leading scorer thanks to a powerful shot and his superb heading ability, connected twice to help his National Team reached the second round of the World Cup last summer.
He has played with nine clubs during his 16-year career, including Southampton (England) and Necaxa (Mexico) and most recently with LDU Quito.
If he is signed, Delgado would become the Bulls' fourth senior international, joining midfielder Markus Schopp (Austria) and goalkeeper Ron Waterreus and midfielder-forward David van den Bergh (both Netherlands).
He also would become the second high profile Ecuadorian forward to play with the Red Bull organization. Former international Eduardo Hurtado performed with the MetroStars from 1998-1999.
Delgado has endured more than his share of controversy through the years.
In 2005, he was suspended by his Ecuadorian club, Barcelona, for indiscipline through the end of his contract. Delgado was banned after he was seen in a disco with a teammate only hours after a 1-0 loss to Olmedo in November, 2005.
“He doesn't feel anything for this shirt, that's why he's going to play in the B team,” club president Isidro Romero told reporters at the time. “It's incredible for a player who's an idol in the national team, because this idol hasn't been up to standard in the local championship.”
Michael Lewis can be reached at BigAppleEdit@aol.com.
