Portland Timbers Land Experienced Dutch Forward

The Portland Timbers have secured their first major signing of the summer transfer window, bringing in Dutch forward Vincent Janssen on a free transfer. The 32-year-old arrives from Belgian side Royal Antwerp, where he served as captain last season.

Janssen's move to Portland represents a return to North American football, having previously played for Mexican side Monterrey from 2019 to 2022. During his time in Mexico, he scored 24 goals in three seasons and was part of the team that won the Concacaf Champions League in 2021.

The Dutch international previously played for Tottenham Hotspur, joining the English club in 2016 for approximately $25 million from AZ Alkmaar. At the time of his transfer to Tottenham, Janssen had just won the Dutch league Golden Boot with 27 goals in the 2015-16 season.

"Janssen brings a proven goal-scoring record and international experience to our squad," said Timbers head coach Martí Cifuentes, who took the job earlier this month. "He's a player who knows how to win titles and compete at the highest level."

Departure of Felipe Mora Paves Way

The signing comes as Felipe Mora completes his six-year run with Portland, moving to Atlético San Luis of Liga MX. Mora capped his Portland career in storybook fashion, scoring a double in his final match against Real Salt Lake.

Janssen will compete with Venezuelan international Kevin Kelsy for minutes in the forward position. Kelsy, 21, has been in impressive form this season with eight goals, including six in his last six matches. The two may be able to play together at times, providing the Timbers with tactical flexibility.

Timbers' Current Standing

Portland currently sits 10th in the Western Conference but remains just two points below the playoff line with 17 matches left in the season. Since the league returned from the World Cup break, the Timbers have won both of their matches, including a commanding 5-1 victory over rival Seattle Sounders.

Last season with Antwerp, Janssen recorded 13 goals and seven assists in 40 appearances across all competitions, totaling 3,579 minutes of playing time. He earned 22 caps for the Netherlands national team, scoring seven goals, and was part of the 2022 World Cup squad.

The Timbers are expected to remain active in the transfer market as they push for a playoff spot in the second half of the season.