The Seattle Sounders have finally made another significant signing.
After four straight summers of mostly sitting on the sidelines, the Sounders announced the acquisition of forward Dejan Joviljić from Sporting KC in a “cash-for-player trade” that is valued at $6 million. Combined with the contract extension he signed with the Sounders that will keep him in rave green at least through the 2029–30 season (there’s an option for 30–31), they’ve likely committed close to $20 million. That would be more than they spent on any one signing since Clint Dempsey.
Jeremiah Oshan
Joveljić’s resume suggests he’s worth it. Since turning professional at 16 with Serbian power Red Star Belgrade, Joveljić has scored more than 100 goals. Among those are 60 over six MLS seasons, including a breakout 2024 in which he had 21 goals and 8 assists to help lead the LA Galaxy to a MLS Cup. He has spent the last two seasons with Sporting KC, where he has 26 goals for one of the league’s worst teams. Internationally, Joveljić has nine senior national team caps and two goals for Serbia.
“We’re thrilled to add a player of Dejan’s caliber to our group,” Sounders General Manager Craig Waibel said in a team release. “He is a proven goal scorer in the prime of his career with a track record of producing at a high level and delivering in big moments. Dejan understands what it takes to win in MLS and not only gives us an immediate boost, but provides a vital building block for the future.”
In order to make room for their new Designated Player, the Sounders have also agreed to a restructured contract with Albert Rusnák. Details of the agreement were not immediately available, but it almost certainly involves a multi-year extension in order to make up for the guaranteed money he would have had to give up this year.
“Albert is a super talented player," Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer said following Saturday's tie with FC Cincinnati. "If we have him the next few years, I’d be happy.”
Joveljić has already started training with the Sounders and is expected to be available when they host the Chicago Fire on Saturday.
