Sounders FC signs Danish midfielder Sivebæk

Christian Sivebæk, 23, has played for Midtjylland in Denmark’s Superliga since 2006.

RENTON , WASH. – Seattle Sounders FC has signed Danish midfielder Christian Sivebaek following his transfer from Denmark’s FC Midtjylland, it was announced today. The signing will be finalized upon receipt of Sivebaek’s P-1 visa and International Clearance. Per Major League Soccer and club policy, terms of the transfer and contract were not disclosed.

“Christian is a player that we have been following for quite some time,” said Sounders FC technical director Chris Henderson. “He is a good one versus one dribbler who can provide consistent quality service to our strikers. He has good speed and physical presence.

“He has been an up and coming player in Denmark,” added Henderson, “and we are looking forward to adding Christian to our attacking arsenal.”

Sivebaek, 23, has played for Midtjylland in Denmark’s Superliga since 2006. He has been deployed at midfield and right back, appearing in 80 league matches and scoring six goals. Sivebaek has represented Denmark at various youth levels 19 times, scoring twice.

His father, John Sivebaek, also played professionally in Europe for 17 years, including seasons with Manchester United and France’s Saint-Etienne and AS Monaco. He was a member of Denmark’s 1992 European champions and the 1986 World Cup selection, and he earned 87 caps altogether.

“This is an exciting opportunity for me, to be joining such a club as Sounders FC,” said Sivebaek. “I am looking forward to playing in MLS and for one of the best and biggest teams in America. I am very impressed by the professionalism of the club, the high quality of players and staff, and the great number and passion of their fans.”

Sivebaek started with his hometown club, Vejle. At age 16 he became one of the first eight youths to join the Midtjylland Academy. He signed as a professional two years later.

Transaction: Seattle Sounders FC (MLS) – Acquired MF Christian Sivebæk from FC Midtjylland (Denmark)

Christian Sivebæk
Position: Midfielder
Height: 6-3
Weight: 194
Birthdate: 2/19/1988
Place of Birth: St. Etienne, France
Hometown (Citizenship): Vejle, Denmark (Denmark)
Pronunciation: SEE-veh-beck
Last Club: FC Midtjylland (2006-2011)
Previous Clubs: Skive IK (loan, 2008)