New England picks up Guingamp defender Angoua on loan

The New England Revolution announced the acquisition of Guingamp defender Benjamin Angoua on Friday, picking up the versatile 30-year-old on loan for the 2017 MLS season with a purchase option.

The deal comes just two days after the Revs bolstered their defensive ranks with the signing of Slovenian center-back Antonio Mlinar Delamea using Targeted Allocation Money, and signals they intend to shore up a backline that failed to secure a playoff berth in the 2016 season.

"With Benjamin's experience, adding him to the Revolution was an important step for our club this offseason," New England general manager Michael Burns said in a statement.

"We began this offseason with the goal of bringing in veteran players who are ready to contribute right away, so we are very pleased to have Benjamin with us as we head to preseason training in Arizona."

His signing comes at a time when Jay Heaps is looking to revitalize his back four, with Delamea, Je-Vaughn Watson, and London Woodberry the out-and-out central defenders listed on the current roster, and right full-back Andrew Farrell capable of slotting into the middle of the back line if needed.

Angoua has made a combined 309 appearances during his club career in France, Hungary, and the Ivory Coast, and has played in various positions in Guingamp's backline. His versatility could prove useful for Heaps.