PTFC Transfer Roundup: Timbers sign Kevin Kelsy, Thorns sign Jayden Perry
It's official! Kevin Kelsy signs a four year contract with a mutual option for 2029. Also, the Portland Thorns add some depth in the backline with UCLA's Jayden Perry.
Yesterday, the Portland Timbers announced that they have signed 20-year-old forward Kevin Kelsy. His contract is for four years with a mutual option for 2029.
“Kevin is a player that we’ve watched for months now. He’s young and one of the brightest center forwards in world football,” said Head Coach Phil Neville. “We’re really excited to have him join us – he’s got pace, power, a lot of development and scores goals. His great potential will fit great with the young group that we have here at Portland.”
After being spotted at training last week, the team has finalized negotiations and made it official.
Portland acquired Kelsy from FC Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine) for a reported transfer fee just under $6 million after acquiring the right of first refusal from FC Cincinnati for $75,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money. The Timbers could possibly trade up to $100,000 in conditional GAM if performance-based metrics are met.
“We are delighted with the acquisition of Kevin, and our staff believe he is a player that has huge potential. With support from ownership, this investment allows us to strengthen our attacking group now and Kevin’s addition will bring a different component along our front line,” said Timbers General Manager Ned Grabavoy. “Our club is excited to continue supporting his development and growth as a young player, and we are eager to see the influence he can have with us here in Portland.”
Kevin Kelsy, 20, will occupy a U22 Initiative roster slot. This will be his second MLS season after playing his first in 2024 on loan with FC Cincinnati, where he tallied six goals in 23 appearances (16 starts). For Shakhtar Donetsk, he recorded nine goals in 37 matches. He also scored twice across the UEFA Champions League and Europa League.
Internationally, Kelsy has earned 16 appearances for Venezuela’s U20 and U20 sides, scoring a combined four goals.
Defense!
The Portland Thorns have signed Jayden Perry from UCLA on a one-year contract through 2025.
“Jayden has been on our radar for some time now as an exciting young, natural left-footed defender at the college level where she was part of a record breaking defense,” Head Coach Rob Gale said. “We believe she will add value and depth to our centerback core and will certainly grow, develop and challenge our existing and new central defending unit.”
Perry was part of the 2022 squad that won the NCAA national championship. She also played next to Lilly Reale, who was one of the best center backs in college.
Fun Fact: Jayden Perry is an artist!
I wonder what the minutes will look like between Mora and Kelsy? I envision Kelsy being a second half sub for the first half of the year and eventually taking over a starting role. Any chance we see a back 3 which would allow the Timbers to play 2 up top?
Imagine my shock when I read the word “defense,” and then the look of “oooh, okay that makes sense” when I realized we weren’t talking about the Timbers anymore 😂