Chicago Fire signs Brazilian midfielder

The Chicago Fire has signed Brazilian midfielder Alex Monteiro De Lima on a free transfer from Swiss side FC Wohlen.

The 23-year-old from San Paolo will be added to the Fire roster upon the opening of the summer transfer window on June 27 and after receipt of his visa and transfer papers.

“Alex is a special player,” said Fire head coach Frank Klopas. “After having the opportunity to see him play for Wohlen last year, Alex joined us for part of our preseason where he showed the ability to contribute to our club.”

De Lima (5-foot-8, 155 pounds) began his professional career with FC Gossau during the 2009-10 Swiss Challenge League campaign, scoring 2 goals in 18 matches for the St. Gallen-based club. Following his initial campaign, De Lima transferred to FC Wohlen, where he tallied 7 goals in 44 appearances the past two seasons for the north Swiss side.

“I’m looking forward to joining the Chicago Fire,” Alex said via a translator from Switzerland. “I hope that my skill and experience will assist as the Fire push for a MLS Cup playoff spot.”

Given a pass to join the Fire during the club’s 2012 preseason, De Lima appeared in two matches.