Eddie Johnson finally got his Designated Player contract.
D.C. United announced Thursday that Johnson, acquired over the offseason in a trade with the Seattle Sounders, was given a contract extension that elevates him to DP status. Per club and league policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"I want to thank D.C. United for showing faith in me,” Johnson said in a statement. “I'm extremely proud to wear the Black-and-Red, and I am excited to get the season started with my new teammates"
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The 29-year-old US international has scored 64 goals in his nine-year MLS career, including 23 over the last two seasons with the Sounders. The target forward also has 19 goals in 62 caps with the US national team.
Johnson reportedly was seeking elite contract status with Seattle, leading to his departure.
“Eddie is an elite striker who is in the prime of his career, and we are thrilled that he has made a commitment to D.C. United,” general manager Dave Kasper said. “We look forward to Eddie's contributions on and off the field.”
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Johnson first came to MLS as a second-round pick of the then-Dallas Burn. After five seasons and 24 goals in Dallas, he was traded to the then Kansas City Wizards in 2006. Following a 15-goal season in 2007, he transferred to Fulham of the English Premier League, where he played three seasons.
He also spent a season on loan with Greek Super League side Aris FC, and returned to MLS with the Sounders in 2012.
He had nine goals with Seattle last year and scored five times in 15 appearances with the national team in 2013.
