It's official: 21-year-old midfielder Matías Laba is a Toronto FC Designated Player.
The club formally announced the acquisition on Friday morning after Laba's ex-club, Argentinos Juniors, confirmed they had accepted a transfer fee on Wednesday.
“Matías Laba is one of the top young talents in Argentina and we are delighted to have him join Toronto FC,” said TFC president and GM Kevin Payne in a club statement. “He is a modern central midfielder and we expect him to be a mainstay of our team for years to come.”
READ: Argentinos Juniors give green light for Laba transfer
Laba, who played for the Argentine Under-20 national team at the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup, wore the captain's armband for Argentinos Juniors and is a product of the club's youth system. He registered 72 total appearances in three seasons with the team.
“We are really excited to have Matias join us. He is an exciting and energetic young player that’s captained his side and shown real leadership qualities,” TFC manager Ryan Nelsen said in a club statement. “He has a great intensity to his play that is infectious to watch and will be a great addition to the club.”
