Timbers Close to Signing Cabecita as Designated Player: Insider Sources
The Portland Timbers are on the verge of completing a deal to sign Uruguayan forward Jonathan “Cabecita” Rodriguez from Liga MX powerhouse Club América, according to insider sources. The move would see Rodriguez occupy a designated player slot for the Timbers. Although Rodriguez is not expected to feature in Club América’s league game on Saturday night, it is clear that the transfer is imminent.
Negotiations have progressed well, with the major points agreed upon. The remaining details are currently being ironed out. Interestingly, Portland was simultaneously negotiating a potential deal for CF Monterrey forward Germán Berterame, with a $15 million bid submitted. However, Monterrey’s president revealed that Berterame has expressed his desire to stay with the club and reject Portland’s offer.
Rodriguez, 30, has enjoyed a successful season with América, scoring nine goals and providing three assists in 1,088 minutes across all competitions. His impressive performances in Liga MX have been consistent throughout his career, which includes stints with Santos Laguna, Cruz Azul, América, and a brief spell at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia in 2022. In total, Rodriguez has netted 108 goals and contributed 27 assists for the three Liga MX clubs he has represented.
Furthermore, Rodriguez has also earned 31 caps for the Uruguayan national team. He initially rose to prominence with Peñarol in Uruguay before being signed by Portuguese giants Benfica. Ultimately, he made his way to Mexico.
If the deal goes through, it would mark a significant development for the Portland Timbers during this offseason. Already, they have appointed Phil Neville as head coach and made several changes to their squad, parting ways with club legend Sebastian Blanco and bolstering their defense with the signings of Canadian internationals Kamal Miller and Maxime Crepeau.
Rodriguez is expected to primarily feature as a center forward, although he has also showcased his versatility by playing on the wing. This flexibility will provide Neville with various options when selecting his attacking lineup, which already includes talented players such as Evander, Santi Moreno, Antony, and Dairon Asprilla.
While the Timbers may still add a young designated player to their roster, it is more likely to occur during the summer transfer window rather than in the next five weeks before the primary transfer window closes.
In conclusion, the potential signing of Jonathan “Cabecita” Rodriguez represents a significant coup for the Portland Timbers. His proven goal-scoring ability and experience in Liga MX make him a valuable addition to their squad. With negotiations nearing completion, the Timbers are poised to make a major statement ahead of the upcoming season.