Official: Minnesota United FC sign Fernando Bob

Minnesota United today has confirmed the signature of Brazilian midfielder Fernando Bob. The 30-year-old defensive midfielder has joined the club on a free transfer, having most recently playing for Serie A (Brazil) side Internacional. He has also featured for the likes of Fluminese and Ponte Preta in Brazil as well. This is the first time he has signed with a club outside of Brazil, so he takes on a new venture with Minnesota.

Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Getty Images

Bob will look to hold the spot that was presumably supposed to be filled by countryman Maximiano at the beginning of the season, but the young Brazilian’s loan has not panned out as expected. Fernando Bob joins the team to create more consistent depth in the midfield. Accompanying him in the midfield will still be Collen Warner, Ibson and Rasmus Schuller.

The four players will be competing for the three spots in Adiran Heath’s 3-5-2. “I’ve been following him since Ponte Preta played in Orlando City probably four years ago,” said United head coach Adrian Heath. Heath also mentioned that the club will be looking into a possible extension of his contract beyond this season.

Fernando Bob will not be available for this weekend’s match against Sporting Kansas City, as he is still waiting for his international visa to arrive. Pending his Visa, Bob’s first appearance will be in September for the Loons.

Bob will wear number 12 for United. He is expected to speak with media later in the week.