UPDATE: The Washington Postreported late Thursday that D.C. United are "on the verge" of acquiring Jara on a yearlong loan from Boca Juniors with an option to buy at season's end, an acquisition that reporter Steve Goff states would likely require the use of discretionary TAM. Jara and D.C. playmaker Luciano Acosta are friends and former teammates at Estudiantes, a link that may have played a key role in United's pursuit of the right back, who can also fill a wingback or right wing role.
TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Report
After a relatively quiet December, we might have an idea now about what the Portland Timbers have been working on this offseason.
A report out of Argentina suggests the Timbers are among the suitors for 27-year-old right back Leonardo Jara.
Jara, who made 51 appearances in two years for Boca Juniors, started his professional career with Estudiantes, where he played in 120 games over the course of seven years.
The report said La Liga side C.D. Leganés and Liga MX clubs could also be in contention for Jara’s services. Jamaican international Alvas Powell was the Timbers preferred right back a year ago, but Portland dealt him to FC Cincinnati late last month for $250,000 in General Allocation Money, as well as a percentage of any future transfer fee if he goes to a club outside of MLS.
