Fans of the Portland Timbers -- and american soccer in general -- are used to mysterious transfers and unknown contracts, but thanks to an article from FCNaija.com we might just have gotten the inside scoop on one of the team's most recent moves: the addition of Nigerian youth international Akinjide Idowu to Portland Timbers 2.
According to an article on FCNaija.com quoting a "reliable" source, Idowu has signed a three year contract with T2, worth approximately $1.5m. If that is true then the Timbers have really looked to make a splash with the addition of Idowu and are putting their money where their mouths are when it comes to bringing in young talent through T2.
Update: Goal.com are reporting that Idowu's contract is a two year deal with an additional option year.
This would almost certainly be the most spent on a USL player by the Timbers and would likely be among the largest contracts in the history of the league, even looking as far back as the A-league in the 1990's.
Of course, we have no confirmation as of yet that Idowu's contract is, in fact, this sizable. If it is, however, then the Timbers must have high expectations for him and may even see the Nigerian youngster as the long-term heir to Diego Chara's spot in the center of the pitch for the Timbers' first team.
For his part, team operator-investor Merritt Paulson -- as well as general manager Gavin Wilkinson -- has repeatedly stressed the investment that the team is making in its USL side. This, combined with the interest in Idowu from a number of European clubs before his signing with the Timbers, make the alleged contract seem not quite as outlandish as it otherwise might.
In light of these details, how do you feel about Idowu's signing? Is it a good thing that the Timbers are willing to spend for a USL player? Give us your thoughts in the comments.
Update: It’s not true.
Didn't realize this was getting so much pickup, but reports that Idowu's deal is 3 years/$1.5 mil are bunk. Let's not lose our heads. #RCTID
— Chris Rifer (@ChrisRifer) January 23, 2016
Well, so much for that. The Timbers are certainly excited about Idowu, and the hope is that in time he can develop into a player who can contribute to the first team and for the Super Eagles. But the report of such a sizable salary at this point of his career do not appear to be within the realm of reality.