WASHINGTON – While one game remains in D.C. United's 2011 campaign, big decisions lay ahead for the franchise's looming offseason.
The future of midfielder Dwayne De Rosario and forward Charlie Davies are two of the biggest decisions confronting D.C.'s front office. De Rosario has one year left – a club-held option – on his current contract, although United plan on trying to offer him a longer deal.
"We'll sit down in the coming weeks with Dwayne and his representative and our goal is to negotiate an extension," general manager Dave Kasper told reporters at training on Friday.
Since joining D.C. at the end of June, De Rosario has scored 13 goals and added seven assists. The Canadian international remains focused on Saturday's final game against Sporting Kansas City, but admitted to the importance of securing something more permanent.
"It's huge,” De Rosario said. “That's what I always wanted, especially as a family guy, I have to do what's right not only for me, but for my family as well. When you talk about contract negotiations, all of these things you have to take and bear in mind. The main focus right now is finishing the season out on a good note and then we'll deal with all that stuff after."
D.C. also plan on making a decision about Davies. His loan from French club Sochaux expires at the end of the calendar year, and the club has an option to purchase the contract for a fee reported to be somewhere north of $1 million. United can also try to negotiate a lower fee or another year-long loan.
Davies has 11 goals in 28 appearances on the year.
"We need to sit down internally, and with Charlie and discuss his future," Kasper said.
Travis Clark covers D.C. United, College and Youth soccer for MLSsoccer.com.
