MLS side Toronto FC have signed USA international Michael Bradley for a reported $10 million. The 26-year-old midfielder returns to the MLS after an eight-year stint in Europe, where he had spells at Aston Villa in England, Heerenveen in Holland's Eredivisie, Germany's Borussia Monchengladbach, and both Chievo and Roma in Italy's Serie A. Previously, he played for the New York Red Bulls in the MLS. The move is thought to be a combination of a willingness to get first-team football before this summer's World Cup in Brazil, and motivated by a reported $6.5 million per year pay packet to return to America's top league. Bradley will be joined by Tottenham's Jermaine Defoe at the Canadian outfit in an audacious double-swoop that aims to lift the profile and performance of the struggling side. Roma coach Rudi Garcia said of the move;
It's a shame Bradley is leaving, but he wanted to go and we cannot keep hold of a player who doesn't want to be here
He went on to say;
It's a pity and I understand he wanted more playing time, as it's difficult to get space in our midfield. We wish him all the best in his new adventure.
Diarmuid is a freelance student and studious sports journalist operating out of the wilds of Dublin, Ireland. His specialist subjects include the English Premier League, the GAA, and track and field athletics.
