WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2012 - Quite a stunning trade took place in MLS today. The Philadelphia Union shipped forward Sebastien Le Toux to the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in exchange for allocation money.
You have to think the second-year Whitecaps got the better part of this deal. The 28-year-old Le Toux has been quite a revelation at the Union scoring 25 goals in 62 games in his two seasons with the team. He notched 14 goals and recorded 11 assists in 2010, the Union's first season in MLS, and was named to the MLS Best XI. While his numbers were lower last season - 11 goals and nine assists - they were still very impressive. Le Toux's efforts were noticed by Premier League club Bolton, who offered the striker a trial this month, but it did not to lead to a contract.
"Sebastien is a proven goalscorer and playmaker in Major League Soccer," Whitecaps coach Martin Rennie said in a club press release. "He is a durable, fit, and speedy attacker, who is capable of playing either up front or wide in midfield. We’re delighted to bring Sebastien back to the Pacific Northwest and add another quality player to our squad."
Union coach Peter Nowak may feel he has a young corp of strikers in Jack McInerney (19) , Danny Mwanga (20) and Josue Martinez (21) who can replace the often outspoken Le Toux.
"While this decision wasn't easy, we are confident that the allocation money we receive will provide the flexibility for us to compile the best possible roster for 2012 and beyond," said Nowak. "Sebastien has been a valuable member of our team for two years and we thank him for his many contributions to the club."
At the Whitecaps, Le Toux will team-up with fellow French striker Eric Hassli, a 6-foot-4 target for Le Toux's passes.
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