Austin FC sign Swedish defender Adam Lundqvist from Texas rivals Houston Dynamo | OneFootball

Austin FC have bolstered their defensive options with the signing of Adam Lundqvist from Texas rivals the Houston Dynamo.

The Verde and Black will pay $500k in General Allocation Money (GAM) spread across the next two seasons, with the first $300k due this year.

Despite being capped twice at senior international level for Sweden, Lundqvist holds a Green Card and won't occupy an international slot on Austin's roster.

“We’re delighted to have Adam join Austin FC. He’s a player with a proven skill set as a left back in MLS,” Austin FC director of player personnel Sean Rubio said in a club press release. “We wish him a warm welcome to the club and to the city.”

Lundqvist arrives following a four-year stay in Houston, where the left-back made 124 appearances across all competitions, providing 11 assists and lifting the 2018 US Open Cup title.

Austin mainly called upon converted winger Jon Gallagher at left-back, while head coach Josh Wolff also has U22 Initiative player Zan Kolmanic to call upon.

However, Lundqvist will offer a far more natural option in that position, while the 28-year-old can also cover at defensive midfield and center-back. The Dynamo, meanwhile, have already replaced Lundqvist, signing ex-Seattle Sounders and DC United defender Brad Smith via free agency.

Houston are preparing for their first season under head coach Ben Olsen and will be looking to return to the MLS Cup Playoffs having been absent since 2017.

First up in 2023 for the Dynamo is an away trip to FC Cincinnati on February 25, while Austin open the new season at home to expansion side St. Louis CITY SC.