CARSON, Calif. — The international transfer window has opened and Chivas USA are eager to make an addition that can help the Rojiblancos in their quest to make the postseason.
And according to Chivas USA general manager José Domene, a signing is right around the corner.
Domene told ESPN Los Angeles following Saturday's scoreless draw with the Red Bulls that a deal was “almost done,” and that Chivas USA “…want to bring in [players] right away, but it's a process. It's pretty much done, but it's not finalized.”
The forward spot is the most pressing need for the team and has been a consistent worry since the beginning of the season. The Rojiblancos have scored more than one goal in just seven matches, and goals by forwards (Justin Braun with four, Marcos Mondaini and Alejandro Moreno tied with three) account for just 40 percent of Chivas USA’s total goal tally. It is actually a midfielder — Nick LaBrocca — who leads the club in goals scored with six.
Though the Goats boast one of the more energetic and feisty midfields in the league — led by LaBrocca — as well as a talented defense, confidence in front of net has been a point of contention. So far this season, Chivas USA have averaged slightly more than goal a game but have been shutout six times. Numerous times throughout the early part of the season, Chivas have failed to finish chances, which has often meant the difference between three points and one point — and in some occasions, zero points.
Against the Red Bulls, the Rojiblancos failed to register a shot on goal.
While it is still unknown just whom the Goats' new addition will be, head coach Robin Fraser admitted that he was ready to insert some new blood into his team.
“When the international transfer window opens, I think all teams around the world are looking for places where you can inject some talent or experience or something that will give your team a lift,” Fraser said. “This is the first transfer window that we’ve been through with this group, so we’re excited to add some pieces and move forward.”
Adam Serrano writes for MLSsoccer.com. He can be reached atadam.m.serrano@gmail.comand on Twitter: @adamserrano
