The Chicago Fire announced Wednesday that defender Bakary Soumare has been transferred to Boulogne of the French first division pending the completion of a physical with the French club. Per club policy, terms of the deal will not be disclosed.
"We would like to thank Bakary Soumare for his contributions to this club and wish him the best in his future playing career," said Chicago Fire technical director Frank Klopas.
The Chicago Fire selected Soumare in the first round (2nd overall) of the 2007 MLS SuperDraft and through his three seasons with the club he appeared in 62 games, starting 55. Last season, Soumare earned both MLS Best XI and Chicago Fire Defender of the Year honors for his defensive efforts as the team reached the 2008 Eastern Conference Final. The Mali native has appeared in three 2010 World Cup Qualifiers in 2009 and most recently played 90 minutes for Mali in a 3-0 friendly win over Burkina Faso.
Union Sportive de Boulogne-sur-Mer Côte d'Opale was founded in 1898 and currently plays in the French Ligue 1. Last season the club played in the French Ligue 2 before ascending to the top division for the 2009-2010 campaign. The club currently has a record of 2-0-1 and will face AJ Auxerre on Saturday, August 29th.
The Fire return to action this Saturday night against D.C. United at TOYOTA PARK (7:30 p.m. CT, Fox Soccer Channel).
