Sounders Sign Mexican MF Gonzalo Pineda

The Sounders Wednesday signed midfielder Gonzalo Pineda, who will be added to the team’s roster pending receipt of his P-I visa and international transfer clearance. Pineda, 31, made 208 appearances in Mexico’s Liga MX, scoring once in 27 appearances for Queretaro during the 2012-13 season. He has been capped 32 times by the Mexican National Team, starting three of four appearances in the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Pineda joined the  Sounders during preseason in Tucson, AZ., starting all four of his appearances.

“Gonzalo is a cerebral player with good technique and vision,” said sporting director Chris Henderson. “Gonzo reads the game very quickly and is always thinking ahead of the play.”

“Gonzalo is an experienced player who can control a game in midfield,” said coach Sigi Schmid. “His left foot and vision on the ball will help us in key situations.”

Pineda began his pro career in 2002 with UNAM Pumas, capturing the 2004 Clausura and Apertura. Following three seasons with Pumas, he joined Guadalajara in 2006, where he made 101 appearances in four seasons. Pineda also made 12 appearances in the Copa Libertadores and played four matches in the Copa Sudamericana while with Guadalajara.

Pineda transferred to San Luis in the 2009-10 Clausura, scoring one goal in 14 appearances before joining Cruz Azul. He made 29 appearances for Cruz Azul in Liga MX play during the 2010-11 season, and also played six matches in the CONCACAF Champions League. He then joined Puebla for the 2011-12 season, making 31 appearances with one goal and four assists.

Pineda most recently played for Queretaro in 2012-13, making 27 regular-season appearances and five appearances in the Copa MX. Overall, he has made 244 appearances in Liga MX and international cups, scoring 10 goals with 15 assists.

The Sounders kick off the league’s 19^th season — and their sixth — at noon Saturday at home against MLS Cup champion Sporting Kansas City on NBC Sports Network..