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It appears as if Atlanta United will acquire veteran right back Tyrone Mears from the Seattle Sounders, the player revealed on his Twitter account Friday afternoon.
Thank you for your kind words, Seattle will always be a special place to me. option was declined, Atlanta negotiated my rights with Seattle
— Tye Mears (@TyeMears) January 20, 2017
The 33-year-old Englishman has spent the last two seasons with the Sounders, appearing in 65 games. According to the official MLS roster page, he did not occupy an international player slot last season. Mears was a key component to Seattle’s MLS Cup run, starting in the final against Toronto FC.
Before joining MLS, he had a successful career in England bouncing from club to club. In 2014, he was brought in to replace homegrown player DeAndre Yedlin after he was sold to Tottenham Hotspur.
Atlanta United would not comment on the rumor and there’s no indication as to what they’ve given up in the trade to acquire him.
United have Mark Bloom on their roster already who can play right back. Mears’ experience and track record would give him a good chance to become the starter if the move does come to fruition.
Another defensive option seems to be on the way for Tata Martino to utilize.