The Daily Dirt, January 25: Adding to the defense

Yesterday, Atlanta officially added Tyrone Mears. They might be adding another member of the backline very soon.

The long-rumored acquisition of Leandro Gonzalez Pirez from Estudiantes de la Plata might be a reality. Agustín Alayes, a member of Estudiantes’ front office, told the Closs Continental radio program yesterday that the deal is “very advanced” and should be closed this week.

These additions would likely round out the defensive corps. Mears will push Mark Bloom for the starting spot at right back, and Gonzalez Pirez should be the pencilled in starter next to Michael Parkhurst at center back. Greg Garza would hold down the left side.

Domestic

Five young up-and-coming players who deserve playing time in 2017 (MLS)

Best new signings for MLS ahead of the 2017 season (FourFourTwo)

Orlando City signs Jonathan Spector (Orlando Sentinel)

Clint Dempsey making progress, cleared to train with the Seattle Sounders (Sounder at Heart)

If the Columbus Crew are serious about switching to a 3-5-2, here’s what it could look like (LWOS)

Philadelphia’s Sons of Ben are trying to recover their identity (Philly Voice)

Minnesota continues to fill out their roster (E Pluribus Loonum)

International

Paul Scholes taking first steps towards management at Oldham Athletic (Daily Mail)

Pressure mounting in Monterrey (FourFourTwo)

Local