On Thursday, the Seattle Sounders acquired the rights to veteran defender Waylon Francis from Columbus Crew SC in exchange for $50,000 in General Allocation Money. The 27-year-old fullback made 83 MLS appearances in four seasons with Columbus. Additionally, the Sounders have re-signed veteran goalkeeper Bryan Meredith.
“Waylon bolsters our already talented group of outside backs, and his effectiveness in MLS over the past four seasons is well known,” Sounders GM & President of Soccer Garth Lagerwey said. “Adding an All-Star level player to our current roster with this type of experience is invaluable, especially with Waylon’s familiarity with CONCACAF play in advance of our Champions League campaign in February.”
Francis signed with Columbus prior to the 2014 campaign after playing for five seasons in his native Costa Rica. The 2015 MLS All-Star selection recorded 18 assists while with the Crew, showing a knack to make plays from the flank. He also made seven postseason appearances, including the 2015 MLS Cup against the Portland Timbers. His option was not picked up following the 2017 season.
The Sounders also announced the return of goalkeeper Bryan Meredith. Meredith, 28, joined the Rave Green prior to last season after spending three seasons with the San Jose Earthquakes. He previously played for Seattle from 2011-12.
“We’re pleased to welcome Bryan back to the squad as a guy who has a long and positive relationship with this club,” said Sounders VP of Soccer & Sporting Director Chris Henderson.
Thursday’s moves puts the club’s current roster at 23 players.
