One of the most offensive-minded teams in MLS has added another weapon.
Sporting Kansas City announced on Sunday the loan acquisition of Jéferson, a 27-year-old Brazilian midfielder, as the club’s second Designated Player. He joins Mexican striker Omar Bravo as a DP.
“I’ve been preparing physically to be able to come here and make an immediate impact,” Jéferson said in a club statement. “I’m very excited to be here and I come with the goal to help the team fulfill its goal of making the playoffs and ultimately going to the final.”
A native of Brasilia, Jéferson has spent the past two seasons with Rio de Janeiro giants Vasco da Gama. The attacking playmaker has also spent time with Santo André, Guarani, Atlético Goianiense, and Brasiliense.
“We are excited to have gotten Jéferson based on the fact that he is a player with the attacking qualities that can really help our team with the final pass and also scoring goals,” Sporting Kansas City manager Peter Vermes said in a statement. “This is an area where we continue to want to improve, and this is an excellent addition with his pedigree of playing in Brazil.”
After a poor start to the season, Sporting are undefeated in their last 11 MLS games. Pending the completion of his paperwork, Jéferson will be available for selection, possibly even for Sporting’s next league match, Saturday at home to Toronto. Sporting also face EPL side Newcastle on Wednesday in a friendly at Livestrong Sporting Park.
No matter when he gets going, Jéferson is expecting to contribute right away.
“I’m player that moves a lot and am very dynamic,” he said. “I’ve got a strong shot from outside of the area, which makes me a threat in this league because of shots from long distance."
