D.C. United acquires Marcelo Sarvas in trade with Colorado Rapids

D.C. United announced Monday the club has acquired midfielder Marcelo Sarvas from the Colorado Rapids in exchange for Targeted Allocation Money, and a conditional draft pick in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft.

Sarvas, 34, has played in 113 league matches over four seasons in MLS, including 25 last year with the Rapids. The former LA Galaxy man had joined Colorado prior the 2015 season.

(Courtesy: D.C. United)

"Marcelo brings MLS experience and a veteran presence to our group," D.C. United general manager Dave Kasper said in a statement. "He is a tenacious player who has been among the top central midfielders in the league in recent years, and we welcome him to our family."

Colorado wasn't done making moves after dealing Sarvas. The Rapids added some attacking talent on Monday by bringing on a Designated Player in Shkelzen Gashi; in contrast, the trade of Sarvas further reduces the Rapids' defensive ranks, with the club losing both captain and central defender Drew Moor and starting goalkeeper Clint Irwin to Toronto FC earlier in the offseason.

But the Rapids seem confident in the defensive abilities of their current crop, and wished Sarvas well with D.C. United.

"Marcelo has been the complete professional during his time with the Rapids," Rapids director Paul Bravo said. "We would like to thank him for his contribution on and off the field and wish him all the best with his new club."