MLS transfer roundup: Austin FC strengthens backline, Union re-signs key defenders | OneFootball

With only a month until the MLS Primary Window closes on April 24, several clubs are wasting no time bringing in reinforcements.

Minnesota United signed promising young South Korean forward Sang-Bin Jung, and Austin FC reinforced their backline with Serbian center-back Aleksandar Radovanovic.

Here are all the transfers you missed...

1. Montreal re-sign Joel Waterman

Montreal re-sign Joel Waterman / Andrew Katsampes/ISI Photos/GettyImages

CF Montreal has re-signed standout center-back Joel Waterman.Waterman, 27, joined Montreal from Canadian Premier League side Cavalry FC. In his four seasons at the club, the Canada international is a pivotal part of Montreal’s backline that includes Rudy Camacho and Kamal Miller. “We are very happy to reward Joel with this new contract,” said Olivier Renard, Montreal’s vice president and chief sporting officer. “Since his arrival with us, he has done nothing but progress. We hope this new deal will help him reach further milestones in his development.”Waterman was about of the 2022 squad that saw Montreal have their best regular season finish in MLS history. His new contract runs from 2023 through 2024, with a club option for 2025.

2. Philadelphia Union extend Jakob Glesnes

The Union extend Jakob Glesnes' contract. / Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia Union has locked down 2022 MLS Defender of the Year Jakob Glesnes to a long-term deal. Since joining the club in 2020, Glesnes has been a rock at the back for the Union, leading them to an MLS Cup Finals appearance in 2022 and a Supporter Shield in 2020."Since arriving in MLS, Jakob has been a critical piece of our backline’s strong defensive record and was recognized individually as the 2022 MLS Defender of the Year,” said Ernst Tanner, Union sporting director. "Jakob has proven not only his sporting value, but also as a leader on and off the field. We’re happy to have reached an agreement to extend his stay in Philadelphia."

3. Austin FC brings in Serbian centerback

Austin signs Aleksandar Radovanović. / Omar Vega/GettyImages

Austin FC brings in some much-needed defensive help with the loan signing of Serbian center-back Aleksandar Radovanović.The 29-year-old arrives at Austin FC from Belgian side KV Kortrijk on a deal that runs through June 30th with an option to buy.“Aleksandar is an experienced, left-footed center-back who will bring quality and depth to the team’s defensive options,” said Austin FC interim sporting director Sean Rubio in a press release.“We look forward to welcoming him to the club and to the city.”

4. Real Salt Lake re-sign captain Damir Kreilach

Austin FC v Real Salt Lake / Chris Gardner/GettyImages

Real Salt Lake has announced that they re-signed captain and Designated Player Damir Kreilach to a one-year contract extension. The 33-year-old has been a staple in RSL’s attack since arriving from Union Berlin in 2018, scoring 44 goals in all competitions. "We are thrilled to keep ‘Dami’ the player on the field in Salt Lake for several more years on an extended deal,” said general manager Elliot Fall in a press release. “Our club is even more ecstatic to keep Damir the phenomenal leader and person attached to our organization for even longer.”

5. Homegrown defender Nathan Harriel signs extension with Union

Jul 8, 2022; Chester, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Union defender Nathan Harriel (26) controls / Mitchell Leff-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia Union has signed homegrown talent Nathan Harriel to a long-term deal. Harriel’s extension runs from 2023 to the 2025 MLS season, with options for 2026 and 2027.“Nathan’s commitment to developing his game has impressed us, and we are thrilled he will continue to grow and contribute here in Philadelphia,” said Union sporting director Ernst Tanner. “His quickness and relentlessness have always been evident, and his decision making has drastically improved. Homegrown players are a pillar of our success and Nathan will continue to exemplify that going forward.”Since getting regular minutes with the first team in 2021, Harriel has excelled. In 2022, his contributions saw the Union concede the fewest goals in MLS with 26.