Sounders FC Sign Colombian Defender

Jhon Kennedy Hurtado is the newest Colombian to join Sounders FC pending an International Clearance and approval of his work visa.

The 24 year old recently completed a tryout with Italian super power AC Milan and played with Fredy Montero at Deportivo Cali.

Official Release

RENTON, WASH. – The Seattle Sounders FC have signed Colombian central defender Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, it was announced today. Per Major League Soccer and club policy, terms were not disclosed. Hurtado’s signing will be finalized upon receipt of his P-1 work permit and International Clearance.

Hurtado, 24, completed a trial with Italy’s AC Milan last month. He saw action in a January 22 exhibition between Milan and Germany’s Hannover, playing the second half along with Kaka, Andriy Shevchenko and Filippo Inzaghi.

Hurtado played the 2008 season for Deportivo Cali, where he was a teammate of Fredy Montero, a Sounders FC forward. In 2007, Hurtado played for Real Cartagena of the Colombian first division. He has played a total of 121 matches at the first and second division levels in Colombia since 2004.

“Jhon has good speed, he’s a good man-to-man marker, a good tackler and uses his speed to close people down,” said Sounders FC technical director Chris Henderson. “We had a chance to see him play 2-3 times, plus some video. We’re excited to have him join our team.”

Hurtado will meet the team in Argentina on February 25.

The Sounders FC opens its inaugural MLS season on March 19, hosting the New York Red Bulls in a nationally televised game at the Xbox Pitch at Qwest Field.

Transaction: Seattle Sounders (MLS) – Signed D Jhon Kennedy Hurtado

Position: Defender
Height: 6-0
Weight: 183
Birthdate: 5/16/1984
Hometown: Palmira, Colombia
Last Club: Deportivo Cali