Portland Timbers Agree Deal for Olympiacos Winger Kristoffer Velde

Portland Timbers have agreed to sign Norwegian winger Kristoffer Velde from Olympiacos. The deal is worth €7 million. Velde will join as a Designated Player, enhancing the Timbers’ attack for the rest of the MLS season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Portland Timbers and Olympiacos have reached a verbal agreement for the transfer of Velde. The 25-year-old Norwegian only joined Olympiacos a year ago from Lech Poznań. He is now set to take on a new challenge in Major League Soccer. The deal is expected to be finalized soon, pending medical tests and contract formalities.

WHY THIS SIGNING MATTERS

The Timbers are in a tight race for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. They are just a few points behind some teams and a small gap ahead of others. Bringing in Velde as a Designated Player is a big move to strengthen their attack, especially since he brings experience from European competition. Last season, Velde made over 35 appearances for Olympiacos, scoring nine goals and providing seven assists in all competitions. He helped the club achieve a top-three finish in the Greek Super League, where Olympiacos finished as winners last year, 16 points ahead of Panathinaikos.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR TIMBERS AND VELDE?

Portland Timbers will soon resume their MLS campaign with a crucial home game against LA Galaxy. Both teams are in the fight for playoff positions, with only two points separating them. Velde’s arrival is expected to have an immediate impact, providing new options in attack for the Timbers’ head coach. All eyes will be on when Velde makes his debut and how quickly he adapts to MLS competition.