WASHINGTON, Feb. 6 (Xinhua) -- Minnesota United has completed the signing of Colombia captain James Rodriguez on a free transfer, the MLS club said on Friday.
The deal, which remains subject to a medical and visa approval, runs until the FIFA World Cup in June and includes an option to extend until December.
"James is a player whose quality, vision and experience at the highest levels of the game are unquestioned," Minnesota sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad said in a statement.
"We're excited to add his creativity and football intelligence to our group. At the same time, this move is about collective strength - not about putting everything on one individual."
Rodriguez has not played since parting ways with Mexican side Leon in December.
The 34-year-old midfielder has been capped 120 times for Colombia in a career that has included spells at Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Monaco and Porto, among other clubs.
"I'm very happy for this new chapter in my life," said Rodriguez, who won the Golden Boot as the top scorer at the 2014 World Cup with six goals in five games.
"I hope to be at my best so I can bring joy to this city and to all of the people who are putting their faith in me. I'm looking forward to meeting all of the passionate Minnesota fans because I'm also a passionate player who wants to give everything on the field and always wants to win."
Minnesota will begin the 2026 MLS season with an away clash against Austin on February 21. ■
