Chicago Fire brings back Solignac, closes in on goalie
The Chicago Fire has re-signed Argentine forward Luis Solignac.
The Fire first acquired Solignac, 25, via trade from the Colorado Rapids in August but declined his contract option in November. It is believed he re-signed at a significantly lower salary than he had with his previous contract. The contract is for two years with a club option on a third.
"Retaining Luis' services as he enters his prime years as a footballer is an important addition for the club as we continue to build our roster for the 2017 season," Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez said in a statement released by the team. "His pace, combination play and overall work rate are a very good fit for us. We expect Luis to continue to grow as a player and become an important contributor."
Solignac likely will provide depth at forward behind recently signed designated player Nemanja Nikolic and Michael de Leeuw. He scored twice in 13 games for the Fire this past season.
The Fire also is expected to sign veteran Uruguayan goalkeeper Jorge Bava soon.
Bava probably would be the No. 1 choice at goalkeeper, with Matt Lampson remaining as backup. The Fire still must find a third goalkeeper.
Bava, 35, would replace seven-year Fire veteran Sean Johnson, who was traded last month. Bava most recently played for Atlético Bucaramanga in Colombia.
The Solignac signing brings the Fire roster to 19 players, with seven international players. Bava would fill the eighth and final international slot, although teams can trade for extra international spots.
The Fire opens preseason training Jan. 23. The MLS SuperDraft is Jan. 13.