The Seattle Sounders made it official Monday, loaning former All-Star forward Fredy Montero to Millonarios FC of the Colombian first division for the 2013 season. Seattle also signed Montero to a new, multi-year contract extension prior to the loan. Montero’s move away from CenturyLink Field opens up a designated player spot on the roster.
Montero, 25, is Seattle’s all-time leading scorer with 47 goals in league play, third-most goals in MLS since 2009. Overall, Montero has scored 60 goals with 43 assists across all competitions. He recorded 23 game-winning goals and 12 game-winning assists in all competitions.
“Fredy has been a fantastic player and pro for Sounders FC over our first four years,” said owner and general manager Adrian Hanauer. “We wish Fredy the best of success with Millonarios as he continues to develop as a player. We hope this move helps Fredy’s chances of being called up to the Colombian National Team, as he has certainly earned it.”
A three-time MLS All-Star and 2009 MLS Newcomer of the Year, Montero joined the Sounders Jan. 21, 2009, on loan from Colombia’s Deportivo Cali. He has made four appearances for the Colombia’s top 11.
Millonarios, one of the most successful clubs in Colombian history, is the defending Liga Postobon champion after it won its 14th title during last year’s Clausura tournament. As champions, Millonarios earned a spot in the 2013 Copa Libertadores, where it has been placed in Group 4 with Corinthians (Brazil), San Jose (Bolivia), and Tijuana (Mexico). Millonarios will open its campaign Feb. 19 at home against Tijuana, which boasts American internationals Edgar Castillo and Joe Corona.