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LAFC signs Diego Rossi to Young Designated Player deal

JUAN CEVALLOS / AFP / Getty

Los Angeles FC continued making moves this week, as the club announced it signed Uruguayan forward Diego Rossi to a Young Designated Player contract, plucking the 19-year-old from Penarol as of Jan. 1, 2018.

Rossi helped lead Penerol to the Uruguayan Club Championship this season, scoring 10 goals. He's the second-youngest Designated Player in MLS history, behind former FC Dallas winger Fabian Castillo, who joined the club at 18 years old.

Rossi, who's appeared for Uruguay at the Under-20 level, joins fellow DP striker Carlos Vela up top at the expansion outfit, while head coach Bob Bradley said he's pleased to add a "young and exciting attacking player" to his ranks.

"His experiences at Penarol and his ability fit perfectly with our vision of the team we are building at LAFC," Bradley added. "We believe Diego will mature into a top-class player."

While details of the move were not disclosed, Uruguayan journalist Wilson Mendez reported Wednesday afternoon that Rossi was set to move for a $3-million transfer fee.

"We believe he will be a great asset on and off the field for LAFC and MLS," general manager John Thorrington said. "Diego is a player with great promise and international interest. It is another powerful statement from LAFC and our league that Diego is choosing to take the next step of his career in Los Angeles."

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