Ghana's C.J Sapong seals Chicago Fire transfer from Philadelphia Union

Published on: 24 February 2019

Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire have completed the signing of Ghanaian forward C.J Sarpong from Philadelphia Union in the on-going transfer window.

The Fire Soccer Club has confirmed that it has acquired the services of Sapong from the Philadelphia Union.

In exchange, the Union will receive $200,000 in 2019 General Allocation Money, $100,000 in 2020 Targeted Allocation Money, and an additional $100,000 in 2019 General Allocation Money should the Chicago Fire acquire said funds this year.

He is under contract with the Fire for the 2019 season with a club option for the 2020 season.

“CJ brings a different skill set to our attacking options,” said Chicago Fire Soccer Club President and General Manager Nelson Rodriguez. “We can now be more varied in how we attack.”

The 30-year-old joins the Fire with 233 appearances (177 starts) in eight MLS seasons, tallying 56 goals and 23 assists during that stretch.

The experienced forward has spent the last four seasons (2015-18) with the Union, posting 36 goals and 14 assists in 123 appearances (108 starts).

He was originally selected by Sporting Kansas City as the 10th overall selection in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft and made 34 appearances during his rookie season, scoring five goals and adding five assists en route to being named the 2011 MLS Rookie of the Year.

In four seasons with Sporting KC, Sapong won an MLS Cup (2013) and the U.S. Open Cup trophy (2012).

“CJ is a player who adds athleticism and a high work rate on both sides of the ball,” said Chicago Fire Soccer Club Head Coach Veljko Paunovic.

“We also believe that he will increase our scoring capabilities. We’re looking forward to working with him this season.”

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