January 4, 2013
CHICAGO BOUND
Sources: Red Bulls trade Lindpere to the Fire

Joel Lindpere gave the Red Bulls three very good seasons. Linda Cuttone/Sports Vue Images

The Red Bulls continued their housecleaning without a coach as they sent Estonian international midfielder Joel Lindpere to the Chicago Fire on Friday, according to sources within Major League Soccer.

The deal is basically a salary dump because Lindpere was to earn more than $200,000 in 2013.

The Red Bulls received an international player slot..

Lindpere had the longest tenure with the team as he was the first player signed by former coach Hans Backe in 2010.

The Estonian was a workhorse, primarily on the left side of midfield, although he could play the central role as well. Lindpere expected much of himself and of his teammates.

There were times during the past two seasons that Lindpere became very frustrated at the play of the Red Bulls.

With a new regime almost in place, there seems to be little or no room for Backe's players.