Red Stars hope to sign Brazil's Cristiane for 2010

The Women's Professional Soccer league opened its free agency season on Wednesday, with six Chicago Red Stars officially becoming free agents.

Although the mutual option for Red Stars forward Cristiane was not extended, both parties hope to come to an agreement to bring the Brazilian star back to the Chicago roster in 2010, according to a statement released by the club. The All-Star forward was the team's leading scorer and the first player to net a hat trick during the inaugural 2009 WPS season.

"With free agency opening Wednesday, we are taking the step to speak with Cris about next season and the Red Stars," said Red Stars general manager Marcia McDermott. "We are excited about the core we are returning and are focused on putting together a playoff-caliber team this offseason."

The Red Stars waived the 2010 contract options for midfielder Heather Garriock, defender Frida Ostberg and goalkeeper Lydia Williams.

The following Red Stars officially became free agents Wednesday: forward Cristiane, goalkeeper Jaimel Johnson, midfielder Carli Lloyd, defender Mary Therese McDonnell, midfielder Lydia Vandenbergh and defender Michelle Wenino.

Free agents may negotiate and sign with any WPS team. Developmental players automatically become free agents and can be signed to a full player contract at any time.