The Union have made their first big summer addition, acquiring Swiss international and former Schalke 04 midfielder, Tranquillo Barnetta.
“Tranquillo had a very positive time here,” Union manager Jim Curtin said. “I’m confident in how things went with him — how he fit in with the group, how he trained with the group. He was very receptive to the ideas Chris [Albright] and I put forward for the plan for the future moving forward.”
The terms of the deal were not disclosed, though the move was powered by MLS’ new Targeted Allocation Money. Barnetta will join the Union roster pending approval of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate.
The 30-year old, more of a playmaker than a scorer and veteran of the 2006, 2010 and 2014 World Cup, is known for his ability on the left and right wings — a position in which the Union are getting little production. Both Andrew Wenger and Sebastien Le Toux have been underwhelming on the wings for the Union, scoring four goals and six assists combined.
“To add a player of Tranquillo’s quality will help us tremendously in what we’re trying to build,” technical director Chris Albright said in the team’s official release. “He’s a player with a real pedigree who chose to continue his career here in Philadelphia over other options. His experience and leadership will also be a great addition to our group as we push for the playoffs and make a run at the [U.S.] Open Cup."
The signing of Barnetta could go down as one of the most important to date for the Union, rivaling the addition of Maurice Edu, Freddy Adu and Rais Mbolhi in terms of star power. Over his 11-year career with the Swiss National Team, Barnetta scored 10 goals in 75 caps. He spent the last 10 seasons playing in the Bundesliga.