Toronto FC sign ex-FC Dallas defender Matt Hedges via free agency | OneFootball

Toronto FC have bolstered their defensive options with the signing of free agent center-back Matt Hedges.

Hedges has signed a two-year deal through the 2024 MLS season, with TFC holding options on 2025 and 2026.

The 32-year-old brings priceless experience to the Toronto backline after running up 349 appearances across all competitions during a 10-year stay with FC Dallas - no player in club history has played more games.

During that time, Hedges won US Open Cup and Supporters' Shield titles, while so picking up five senior caps for the United States and playing a part in the USMNT's 2017 Concacaf Gold Cup triumph.

“Bringing a dominant center back was one of our priorities during this offseason, and we are happy to have Matt joining our club,” Toronto FC president Bill Manning said in a club press release.

“He is a [2016] MLS Defender of the Year with a ton of MLS experience that will help lead our backline. His presence and leadership will be critical as we continue to build the roster.”

At an individual level, Hedges won multiple honors during his time with Dallas, including MLS Defender of the Year and Best XI distinctions, as well as being named to the All-Star team on three separate occasions (2017, 2018, 2019).

“Matt is a player with great character who brings valuable MLS experience to our group,” said Toronto head coach and sporting director Bob Bradley.

“He is eager for a new challenge and wants to be a part of what we are building here. We are happy to bring Matt to Toronto FC.”

TFC are preparing for their second season under Bradley, who was unable to guide them back into the MLS Cup Playoffs after also missing out in 2020.

Hedges is their second addition of the winter from the free agent market after the club re-signed midfielder Jonathan Osorio, who featured in Canada's World Cup campaign in Qatar.