Washington, D.C. - D.C. United announced today the signing of Argentine forward Lucio Filomeno. Although only 25, Filomeno has a wealth of international experience, having played in Italy, Mexico, Korea and his native Argentina. The striker will be available for selection in tonight's regular season finale against the Columbus Crew, after obtaining a work permit and an international transfer certificate.
"We've anxiously awaited the opportunity to see Lucio in action," said United Technical Director Dave Kasper. "With the playoffs looming, we aspire to have all facets of our club functioning at a high level."</p>
Filomeno began his career in 1996 with Nueva Chicago in the Argentine second division. He tallied a goal at the tender age of 15 in his professional debut in a 1-1 draw with Arsenal de Sarandi in a match that also featured current United midfielder Christian Gomez. Filomeno and Gomez were teammates at Nueva Chicago.</p>
Filomeno spent two years at Nueva Chicago before moving to Italy where he spent time with Udinese and Inter Milan during 1998 and 1999, though he didn't make any appearances with either of the Serie A first teams. He then moved back to Argentina where he spent three seasons in the First Division with San Lorenzo - he made 21 total appearances over three years and scored four goals. While at San Lorenzo, Filomeno helped the club capture the Clausura 2001 championship and the 2001 Copa Mercosur.</p>
In 2002, he moved to Jaguares de Chiapas of Mexico where he spent two years, made 68 appearances and scored 13 goals. At Chiapas, Filomeno became a fan favorite, for his goal scoring heroics, and was a teammate of current Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Guillermo "Pando" Ramirez. This year he spent time in the Korean K-League with Busan where he scored six goals in 15 games. </p>
Filomeno also represented Argentina at the international youth level, making three appearances for the U-17 national team, coached at the time by Jose Pekerman, the current head coach of the Argentine senior national team. </p>
