Philadelphia Union Sign Giliano Wijaldum from Discovery List

By Chuck Booth | Jan 5, 2017

Oct 16, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Union defender Fabinho (33) battles Orlando City FC forward Carlos Rivas (11) for the ball during the second half at Talen Energy Stadium. Orlando won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

Philadelphia Union fans, the silence in the transfer market is now over. After weeks of wondering what Earnie Stewart was up to, they’ve now made their first signing.

Giliano Wijaldum not to be confused with Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijaldum was announced as a discovery signing for the Philadelphia Union today.

The left back, who played for Earnie Stewart during his time at AZ Allakamar will arrive on what seems to be a free transfer. Wijnaldum will take up an international spot but with the departure of Tranquillo Barnetta, the team had one open so the won’t need another transaction in order to acquire one.

This move came out of left field as most people were concerned with who the English striker was that the Philadelphia Union were pursuing. But as Earnie Stewart is prone to do, he kept his cards close to his vest and was ultimately able to get his guy. At 24, Wijnaldum is a signing both for now and for the future that strengthens the Union’s thinnest position at outside back.

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Wijnaldum has spent time at AZ Alkmaar, FC Groningen, Go Ahead Eagles, and VFL Bochum. That;s extensive experience for such a young player. With Fabinho entering the last year of his contract at age 31, Wijnaldum could be a cheap replacement for him moving forward.

He comes from a footballing pipeline as the little brother of Georginio Wijaldum. He’ll be added to the active roster upon receiving his International Transfer Certificate and P-1 Visa. Wijaldum brings some versatility to the squad with his ability to also play center back. Due to Curtin’s loyalty to his guys, don’t expect him to overtake Fabinho for a starting role anytime soon.

"“We’re pleased to welcome Giliano to the Philadelphia Union and are excited about the talent he adds to our defensive corps,” said Stewart. “As a young player who I have worked with before in the Netherlands, I know firsthand the potential he brings to our club. We are eager to integrate him within the squad and believe he has a bright future with the Union.”"

Wijaldum fits in well with Stewart’s transfer policy to target younger undervalued players who can contribute to the squad. It’s how the team got Roland Alberg and it’s likely how they’ll get more guys moving forward. On the pitch, Wijaldum is a good dribbler who is very aware on the pitch leading to timely interceptions.

This is only the beginning of transfer activity for the Philadelphia Union but things have started off with a bang. It should be interesting to see what else the team blindsides us with in the coming weeks. Welcome, Giliano!

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