The Clint Dempsey transfer saga is all but over after Tottenham Hotspur confirmed the sale of the United States star. Thanks to Major League Soccer roster rules, Spurs haven't named the Seattle Sounders, Dempsey's ultimate destination, as the buyers -- but rest assured that his arrival in the Emerald City is now a formality.
Tottenham Hotspur confirm Clint Dempsey sale
Robert Cianflone
Dempsey, 30, represents the biggest acquisition in Sounders history. He's also a major coup for MLS. While he failed to impose himself at White Hart Lane, scoring 12 goals in 43 appearances after arriving from Fulham, his heroics with the national team mean that he's one of the most recognisable footballers in the United States. It's not just about marketing, either. He's a major upgrade to Seattle's squad, who've struggled so far this season after four straight excellent years, and this transfer should put them right back into the playoff picture.
They’ve had to pay a premium to get him -- Jeremiah Oshan reported that they’ve paid a $9 million transfer fee to get him and NBC Sports have reported that Dempsey has signed a 4-year deal worth $32 million -- but considering the ecstatic reaction of Sounders fans and MLS watchers, it’s clear that the money has been well spent.
