Minnesota United finalizing first transfer acquisition of MLS summer window

Minnesota United is poised to compete for a playoff spot in 2019.

Through 19 games, the Loons sit in 4th place in the Western Conference. With 15 more matches to go, all United has to do is stay within the top 7 spots.

The success that Minnesota has enjoyed so far this season is a reflection of the status of the team’s roster: now in the third year of a three-year plan, things are finally coming together.

Major League Soccer’s secondary (or summer) transfer window officially opens on Tuesday, and the Loons are expected to be in the market for a couple of pieces.

Minnesota United won’t be wasting time: multiple sources familiar with the situation tell E Pluribus Loonum that the team has filed paperwork with the league for its first acquisition of the window.

Andy Greder of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported on Monday that manager Adrian Heath expected to announce a transfer “in a couple of days.” Now, that announcement could be coming soon, depending on how promptly the deal is confirmed.

Expected areas of improvement for United include left back and left winger following the departures of Francisco Calvo and Romario Ibarra.

Rookies Hassani Dotson and Chase Gasper have filled in at the fullback post and performed well, though there is an element of uncertainty in relying on either to maintain that level through a potential playoff run.

Miguel Ibarra and Kevin Molino have most often played on the left in United’s attack, though both are right-footed and not natural fits at the position.

The secondary transfer window is open until August 7th, and intra-league trades are allowed until August 8th. MLS clubs are required to submit final 30-man rosters on August 30th.