Joan Verdu expects formal offer, invitation to Seattle

The rumors of Joan Verdu joining the Seattle Sounders on transfer started during the Summer 2012 window, but nothing came of them. Verdu was unwilling to come visit the city and no formal offer was given to the player or the agent. Now in Winter 2013 things are changing. Espanyol is in danger of relegation, can't afford to keep Verdu even if they avoid the drop and still Verdu wants to stay to help his club.

But according to MLSSoccer.com's Spanish Language site Verdu is now willing to visit the Seattle area with his family. Per Google translate;

Anyway, despite the decision of the player to stay until the summer at Cornella-El Prat, the Sounders will arrive shortly to release a formal offer by Verdú Magico Diaz, who also plans to invite up to Seattle with whole family to learn firsthand their facilities.

Verdu has slotted more at forward this year than in past years, but is the veteran quality attacking player which the Sounders seem to want to add during 2013.

Considering this and the Nelson Valdez offer it would seem that Hanauer and company are looking to La Liga for their Montero replacement.