Sources: Chicago Fire trying to buy out Gilberto

Posted May 31, 2016 1:00 am

Orrin Schwarz

Sources say the Chicago Fire is working to buy Brazilian forward Gilberto out of his contract.

Gilberto, 26, has not scored this season in nine games played. He left the team Thursday after asking for and receiving some personal time. Coach Veljko Paunovic said after Saturday night's 1-1 draw against the Portland Timbers that Gilberto was expected back June 6 with the rest of the Fire players following a week off as part of the break for Copa America.

Gilberto joined the Fire on July 27, 2015, off waivers from Toronto FC. He is one of three designated players on the Fire roster and one of just three forwards listed on the roster for a team that is last in MLS in scoring and in the standings.

Gilberto is the highest-paid player on the Fire roster at $1.145 million for the 2016 season, according to MLS Players Union figures. His contracct expires at the end of this season, though the Fire holds an option to extend it.

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