D.C. United made the rumored acquisition of Joseph Mora from Deportivo Saprissa official today, signing the Costa Rican left-back to a contract. While terms of the deal were not disclosed, Steve Goff previously reported that a transfer fee would be paid. A fee was also paid when D.C. signed Mora’s teammate Ulises Segura last winter; Segura’s contract ran until next year.
Mora may take a little bit of time to get up to speed with United’s style of play and with MLS in general, but with current projected starter Taylor Kemp injured, Mora could emerge as a starter quickly. Oniel Fisher started for United at left back in the season-opening draw with Orlando, but if Mora can adapt quickly, the Jamaican could have competition. That would also boost United at right back, where Fisher would vie with Nick DeLeon and Chris Odoi-Atsem for the starting job.
Due to the means used to acquire Mora, it’s safe to assume he will occupy a senior roster spot. However, there remains some gray area as to how many D.C. has left. MLSsoccer.com, says United has filled 17 senior spots out of a possible 20, with Fisher on the supplemental roster. That would conflict with his having senior roster status with the Seattle Sounders in years past. It also does not yet list new signing Dane Kelly, who is widely reported to be training with United in anticipation of an official announcement.
More notably, United is once again over their total international spots. Mora will require such a spot to get on the field, and the Black-and-Red just made a deal with Portland to add a needed seventh spot. One thing that should be noted: with Steve Goff’s report yesterday that Bruno Miranda may see plenty of time on loan with the Richmond Kickers, United could use his spot on Mora while the Bolivian is away. Last year, United made a similar move with Julian Buescher.