Transfer Tracker

Vancouver Whitecaps sign free agent right back Sean Franklin to 1-year deal

Sean Franklin -- defending -- late challenge

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS:Signing


The Vancouver Whitecaps announced the signing of free agent right back Sean Franklin to a one-year contract Thursday, officially securing a 10-year MLS veteran who has been with the team since the second week of training camp.


Franklin, who will turn 33 next month, has made 308 appearances in his time with the LA Galaxy and then D.C. United. He won MLS Cups in 2011 and 2012, and was named an MLS All-Star in 2011 and 2014.


"Sean is an experienced player and a proven winner," coach Carl Robinson. "He's won trophies in LA, and that's what we're trying to do here. He brings a little bit of competition to the right back slot which is what we need. This will make our younger players better and keep them on their toes. Sean will play an important role for us this year."


Offensively, Franklin has 11 goals and 37 assists, and he scored a career-high four goals with LA in 2011. In the postseason, he ranks in the top 10 among active MLS players with 21 starts, 22 appearances, 1,994 minutes played and four assists.


"I'm glad to be a part of this young and hungry team. My experience will help the young guys and I'm looking forward to what we can accomplish this season," Franklin said in a statement. "I was with the team in Hawaii, and everyone welcomed me. I got to know my teammates right away and got comfortable with everyone."


MLS Fantasy Impact: You can add Franklin ($4.5) to your team today. Start playing!