Red Bulls centerback Tim Ream was granted his working papers at a hearing today, and will complete a transfer to English Premier League side Bolton. The move _ expected to be for between $2.75 and $3 million _ will be the biggest for a defender in MLS history, and creates an opening for New York to acquire Wilman Conde.
The story was first reported by BBC.
Coach Hans Backe had said earlier today that he fully expected Ream’s move to go forward, but insisted even if the appeal had been denied, the club would have plowed forward in acquiring it’s targeted defender. Now the point is moot, Ream likely helped by the support of U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann.
“No, (it’s not reliant on Ream moving). But we’re just saying that Tim will get his papers. If not, we will have a lot of centerbacks,’’ said Backe. “If Tim comes back, we will have four centerbacks. But I think it’s possible to have almost _ as we said _ two (reserves) at each position. That will work.’’
The sale of Ream would add him to a distinguished list of players sold by New York, including Tim Howard, Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore. And while one has to wonder if 19-year-old Juan Agudelo is next _ drawing interest from both the Bundesliga and EPL_ now the Red Bulls’ concern is bolstering their back line.
This leaves them with holdover Stephen Keel and 6-foot-2 Swedish newcomer Markus Holgersson _ who arrives next weekend, flying with the team to Mexico on Monday. But the Red Bulls will move forward now in trying to add a third reliable centerback.
While both Backe and GM Erik Soler have steadfastly refused to mention Conde by name, sources continue to indicate he is indeed their preferred acquisition. The 29-year-old Colombian played last season for Atlas, and right now the Red Bulls need to both compensate Chicago with allocation money and also get Conde’s visa sorted. Once the latter is completed, expect an announcement in short order.