Fredy Montero has become the third designated player of the Seattle Sounders FC after signing an extension with the team on Wednesday.
Montero, Seattle's leading goal scorer in each of the first two years of the franchise's existence, joins Alvaro Fernandez and Blaise Nkufo in Seattle's trio of designated players.
''This young man has been a very important part of our franchise from day one, on and off the field. His production speaks for itself,'' Seattle general manager Adrian Hanauer said. ''He's becoming one of the best players in our league. I think he can be the best player in our league bar none.''
Montero, 23, was the 2009 MLS newcomer of the year and has totaled 22 goals and 17 assists in his two years, the third most in the league.
As part of his designated player tag, Montero's contract has been permanently transferred to the club and the MLS. He was originally signed on loan from Colombian club Deportivo Cali.
Montero received his green card earlier this season and the extension for now ends the rumors of Montero jumping to play in Europe. Hanauer said from a salary cap standpoint, making Montero a designated player will help the Sounders manage the cap in the future and should not prevent Seattle from making the expected move of re-signing goalkeeper Kasey Keller for next season.
''I arrived here as a virtual unknown to the Sounders and through the seasons and over the course of many games I have endeared myself to the fans and I love the fans,'' Montero said. ''I am glad that I am going to be able to play a bigger role for the Sounders.''
