Perkins returns to United; Fred goes to Union

Published Jan. 13, 2010 7:07 p.m. ET

foxsports

U.S. national team goalkeeper Troy Perkins is returning to D.C. United following a trade with the expansion Philadelphia Union.

United sent midfielder Fred, the No. 7 overall pick in this year's draft and allocation money to Philadelphia on Wednesday in order to trade places with the Union in the MLS allocation order. That allowed United to acquire Perkins, who is returning to the league after playing two years with a Norwegian club.

Perkins spent four seasons with United and was the MLS goalkeeper of the year in 2006. He has also made six appearances with the United States, all in 2009.

Fred played three seasons with United. The Brazilian scored 11 goals and had 16 assists.

The Union begin their first season in MLS this year.