TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Loan
The San Jose Earthquakes have dipped into the South American youth market, announcing on Wednesday they have signed defender Yeferson Quintana on a season-long loan from Peñarol, with an option to buy.
The 21-year-old Uruguayan is an imposing center back, establishing himself at the powerhouse club in 2017, where he made 29 appearances and added three goals and two assists across all competitions, including the Copa Libertadores. Peñarol won the Uruguayan league title last season. Coming through the youth ranks at the club, Quintana made his pro debut with the first team in 2016.
"Yeferson fits the profile of the player we wanted to add at this position," said Earthquakes general manager Jesse Fioranelli in a team statement. "His arrival will also give us different options as to how our defense will line up next season. Yeferson has a strong presence in both phases of the game, which makes him an important addition to our defensive line.
"He's already won a championship with a renowned club such as Peñarol and participated in Copa Libertadores. Considering that he's just 21 years old, we look forward to his contribution in the future wearing black and blue."
Quintana is the second Peñarol player to be signed by an MLS team this offseason, joining forward Diego Rossi, who was signed as a Young Designated Player by LAFC.
