Timbers finalizing deal to bring Josecarlos Van Rankin in on loan

According to Tom Bogert of MLSsoccer.com, the Portland Timbers are reportedly finalizing a deal to bring Mexican right back Josecarlos Van Rankin in on loan from Chivas Guadalajara. The deal will likely be a one-year loan with a purchase option of over $1 million.

The deal is one that was rumored to be happening earlier this month, with ESPN first reporting that Van Rankin was tied to Portland.

Van Rankin has played in his home country of Mexico for his entire professional career, debuting with the Mexican national team in 2018. Last season, the 27-year-old defender was on loan with Santos Lagunas, scoring twice in his 25 appearances across all competitions. Before that, he made 173 appearances with Pumas before joining Chivas in 2018.

Adding Van Rankin would be yet another move made to hopefully strengthen the backline. It gives Portland two natural right backs now with Pablo Bonilla also still with the club. Bogert also noted that Van Rankin could play left back as well, although the Timbers already signed Claudio Bravo to fill that position.

To read Bogert’s full report, click here.