2021 MLS Re-Entry Draft: Stage two round-up
By Chris Smith
Stage two of the MLS Re-Entry Draft is complete, with six players moving to new clubs.
The Re-Entry Draft allows players who are 22 and above with at least one year in MLS under their belts to sign with a new club if they were released by their previous employer.
Clubs don't necessarily need to hold onto their picks, but it is a good chance to add some quality with MLS experience to your roster.
Stage two was certainly eye-opening, with a few big names making moves. Here's a round-up of all six deals:
1. Robert Beric to Sporting Kansas City
Two seasons ago, Robert Beric was one of the most lethal strikers in MLS, scoring 12 goals in 23 appearances. He didn't quite hit those heights in 2021, but was still the Chicago Fire's joint-top scorer with eight goals in 33 games.
Beric was released from his DP contract at the end of the recent campaign, with Sporting KC snapping him up. Should he remain at Children's Mercy Park, the Slovenia international will provide quality competition for a forward line already boasting the likes of Alan Pulido, Johnny Russell, and Daniel Salloi.
2. Jan Gregus to San Jose Earthquakes
A persistent ankle injury made Jan Gregus fall off a cliff in 2021, but those who have watched him in MLS over the years are well aware of the quality he can offer.
Whether or not Gregus will be fit enough for the intense style of play Matias Almeyda has put in place in San Jose remains to be seen - perhaps he could be moved on for some General Allocation Money (GAM).
But if he stays, the Quakes have themselves a great midfield option.
3. Bryan Acosta to Colorado Rapids
The Colorado Rapids paid Toronto FC $75,000 GAM to acquire the No.2 selection in stage two of the Re-Entry draft, alongside some other goodies.
With that pick, they selected former FC Dallas midfielder Bryan Acosta, another former DP to move in this round of the Draft alongside Beric and Gregus.
He'll join the likes of Michael Barrios and Kellyn Acosta as former FC Dallas players in Colorado.
4. John Nelson to FC Cincinnati
Another player on the move from FC Dallas, John Nelson was selected by FC Cincinnati on Thursday. Should he remain in Cincy, he'll offer new head coach Pat Noonan some depth at left-back, with 30 MLS games under his belt so far.
5. Brady Scott to Columbus Crew
Selecting Brady Scott might end up being a good bit of business for the Columbus Crew.
The 22-year-old is unlikely to displace Eloy Room between the sticks, but he is capped at youth level for the United States and has clear talent. His age means he could even be sold on for a decent profit. The Crew will only pay Austin FC $50,000 in GAM if Scott meets certain performance thresholds.
6. Eric Dick to Minnesota United
Erick Dick has played just one MLS match in the last three years and will likely sit behind Tyler Miller, Dayne St. Clair, and Fred Emmings on Minnesota United's goalkeeping depth chart.
Perhaps the intention is to move him on in exchange for a little boost to the Loons' GAM supply...