Whitecaps move for Marcel de Jong

Canadian international Marcel de Jong is set for a second spell in MLS after putting pen to paper Monday on an 18-month deal with the Vancouver Whitecaps.

De Jong, 29, will suit up for the mid-table Whitecaps after his contract with Sporting Kansas City was terminated on mutual terms in March, prompting a sojourn with NASL side Ottawa Fury.

"We are very familiar with Marcel, both from playing against him and his years with the national team," Whitecaps boss Carl Robinson said of the 45-time capped De Jong.

"He's a good professional who brings additional experience and versatility to our squad."

Experience indeed, as the 29-year-old has made over 250 appearances both domestically and abroad. His 13 run-outs with Sporting were preceded by European stays at Dutch side Roda JC and Bavarians Augsburg after eight years in PSV's academy.

Able to be used both as a full-back and on the left side of the midfield, De Jong appears elated to join a club where he can play a vital role.

"I'm excited to join Whitecaps FC," added de Jong. "When I played on the Canadian national team in front of the great fans here in Vancouver, I knew I wanted to be a part of this club."

With just one victory in its last six league matches, Vancouver could afford to take a flyer on a player with experience in North America's top flight.