Minnesota United continued their commitment to building the depth of their squad with the announcement of another international signing, this one aimed at shoring up their MLS-worst defense of last season.
The club announced early on Thursday afternoon that they had acquired defensive midfielder Luiz Fernando from Brazilian club Fluminese FC on loan for the 2018 season, with an option to buy the player after the season.
Fernando is an intriguing prospect, having played at the top level in Brazil and on loan at Fluminese’s affiliate club in the second division in Slovakia, FC ŠTK 1914 Šamorín.
Fernando is only 22, and is another example of the Loons’ transfer policy this offseason to buy low on prospects who can play but have great potential to grow. Fernando’s probable low price relates to his injury status, having suffered a torn right ACL eight months ago in Slovakia.
Minnesota’s track record on the defensive side of the ball is not ideal: they allowed an MLS-worst 70 goals in their first season at the top level, and while they held a high-powered Atlanta United side to a 1-1 draw in preseason action on Wednesday night, they did so largely based on remarkable play by Matt Lampson in goal and captain Francisco Calvo at centerback.
A quality defensive stopper in front of Calvo and Michael Boxall could be a great help to the United defenders, and if Fernando is healthy, he could be exactly what the team needs.
