Colombia defender Carlos Valdes joins Nacional on loan from Philadelphia Union
Philadelphia Union defender Carlos Valdes will continue his career in Uruguay after securing a one-year loan deal with Nacional on Friday.
Valdes' decision to return to South America marks yet another departure from PPL Park to further his career elsewhere. The Colombia defender spent time on loan with Independiente Santa Fe in 2014 and San Lorenzo last year in a bid to seal a place in Jose Pekerman's squad for the World Cup, but he returned to MLS after the tournament to boost the Union's late season run.
Those efforts did not quell speculation about a close-season exit, though. It took a bit longer than anticipated, but Valdes, 29, eventually clinched his deal with Nacional to embark upon a third loan spell in three years.
Union technical director Chris Albright said the decision to send Valdes out on loan provides his club with salary budget flexibility heading into the campaign. Valdes made $294,999 in base salary last year, per MLS Players Union documents.
"We wish Carlos the best of luck and look forward to him representing the club well during his time with Nacional," Union technical director Chris Albright said in a statement. "The loan makes financial sense for both our club and Carlos, and gives us the ability to continue to shape our roster as we prepare for the season."
Albright and coach Jim Curtin might ponder potential reinforcements in central defense. Maurice Edu could feature in that department regularly after joining the club permanently from Stoke City earlier this winter, while Austin Berry, Ethan White and Sheanon Williams also present further options.
