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Atlanta signs veteran Larentowicz

John E. Sokolowski / Reuters

Gerardo Martino's Atlanta United squad is shaping up nicely, and the Argentine gaffer added some veteran presence Wednesday with the signing of free-agent midfielder Jeff Larentowicz.

The MLS' 21st-side announced the move Wednesday, and as per league policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Larentowicz joins Atlanta as a 12-year veteran of the North American top flight having played 324 matches for four sides, the New England Revolution, Colorado Rapids, Chicago Fire, and LA Galaxy.

"We’re pleased that a player of Jeff’s quality and experience chose to sign with our club through free agency," Atlanta president Darren Eales said Wednesday. "It’s important for us to find the proper balance between up-and-coming talent and experienced league players, and we feel Jeff will fill a valuable role for us."

Larentowicz, 33, makes the Atlanta switch 11th all time in minutes played (27,640), 19th in appearances (324), and with no fewer than 23 matches played in each campaign since 2006. The versatile midfielder's decorated career has seen him win the Lamar Hunt U.S Open Cup (2007), four Eastern Conference Championships (2005, 2006, 2007, 2010), and the 2010 MLS Cup with Colorado.

Beyond his experience, the Brown product offers a calm influence in the midfield when in possession, a quality technical director and former U.S. international Carlos Bocanegra clearly values.

"Jeff gives us another dimension because of his natural passing and possession abilities," Bocanegra offers. "His experience and leadership will be invaluable for our younger players, and he’s capable of making a big impact on the field. He’s proven to be a winner throughout his entire career."

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