COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Columbus Crew announced today that the club has signed Brazilian youth international midfielder Ricardo Virtuoso. Per league and team policies, contract terms will not be disclosed. The deal is pending approval of his work permit.
The 22-year-old Virtuoso trained with The Crew in Cyprus during the preseason and will join the team once his work visa is approved. The Crew did not have to make a roster move, with goalkeeper Jonny Walker recently placed on season-ending injured reserve.</p>
"I'm very pleased to be signing with The Crew and playing in MLS," said Virtuoso. "I am looking forward to helping the team qualify for the playoffs and have a successful season." </p>
Virtuoso spent the last two seasons playing for Chiasso in the Swiss second division. He is a product of the Juventus (Sao Paulo) developmental club and played in some qualification matches for the Brazilian U-17 National Team that qualified of the 2001 World Youth Championship.</p>
"We're excited at the thought of Ricardo joining us," said Crew Head Coach Sigi Schmid. "He is an attacking player and Brazilians are known for their attacking flair and we hope he brings some of that flair to Columbus."</p>
RICARDO VIRTUOSO
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5-8
Weight: 155
Hometown: Guarapuava, Parana, Brazil
Birthdate: March 1, 1984 (22) in Guarapuava, Parana, Brazil
Nationality: Brazil
Last Club: Chiasso, Swiss Challenge (second division) League (2004-2005)
Transaction: The Crew has signed Brazilian midfielder Ricardo Virtuoso
