Sporting KC snaps up Justin Mapp in 1st-ever MLS free-agent deal
Sporting Kansas City has acquired veteran winger Justin Mapp after his deal at the Montreal Impact expired at the end of the 2015 campaign.
The 31-year-old was a faithful servant to the Quebecois outfit, representing Montreal for three seasons, and his move to Missouri is the first free-agent deal in Major League Soccer history.
"Adding an experienced player of Justin's caliber is a great start to our offseason," Sporting KC manager Peter Vermes said. "He fits very well into our model of play and brings a lot of qualities that will help us reach our goals next season."
A change in MLS ruling this offseason allows certain players to enter the free-agency market rather than the re-entry draft. The stipulations are that the player has to be aged 28 or over and has played in the league for at least eight years.
Related: Mike Magee, Ricardo Clark among first class of MLS free agents
Mapp talked of his delight at moving to Children's Mercy Park.
"Sporting Kansas City has always been a team and organization I have respected, and now I am very happy to be a part of it and play in front of such passionate fans," Mapp said.
"I am thankful and appreciative for my time at Montreal, and I'm looking forward to the 2016 season in Kansas City."