TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Loan
Orlando City SC announced on Thursday the acquisition of Peruvian-Venezuelan center back Carlos Ascues on loan from Peruvian side FBC Melgar for the remainder of the season, pending receipt of his ITC and P-1 Visa. The deal includes an option to extend the loan for an additional 12 months after this year.
The paperwork for the transaction was filed before the close of the MLS secondary transfer window, but due to an issue with the documentation, the process was delayed and the two clubs had to seek a waiver from FIFA, which has been obtained, allowing the deal to be completed.
Ascues, 26, most recently played for Alianza Lima, where he made 13 league appearances as well as four in Copa Libertadores action this year, and helped the club win the Peruvian title last season. He’s also played at German Bundesliga side Wolfsburg, Greek club Panetolikos Arginio, Peruvian outfits Universidad San Martin de Porres and the reserve side at Portuguese powers Benfica.
“Carlos brings valuable experience from Europe and South America. He fits the profile we’re looking for in a defender, and we also value his versatility to be able to play in the midfield,” Lions GM Niki Budalic said in a club release. “We welcome him to Orlando and look forward to his contributions.”
Born in Caracas, Venezuela to Peruvian parents, Ascues — who can also fill a defensive midfield role — has made 21 international appearances for Peru, including World Cup qualifying and Copa America action, scoring five goals.
