Sporting signs Bieler as a Designated Player

Kansas City, KS – Sporting Kansas City announced Tuesday that it has signed striker Claudio Bieler as a Designated Player.

"He's proven over the years that he's a very consistent goal scorer," Sporting manager Peter Vermes said. "We think he's got a lot of good qualities that can fit into our team. Everything from his commitment to being a team player, to his work ethic out on the field, to a guy that lives and breathes for club that he plays for. We're excited that we're able to finally secure him and add a player of his caliber to our organization."

Bieler, an Argentina native who holds dual citizenship in Ecuador, scored 71 goals in 155 games across all competitions for Ecuadorian side LDU Quito, the most in club history.

The 28-year-old began his club career in Argentina with Colon before making the move to Atletico Rafaela. He moved to Colo-Colo in 2007, but lasted just one season with the Chilean club despite helping them win the Clausura title. Bieler switched to LDU Quito in 2008 and Argentine club Racing in 2010. After a couple of loan spells while under contract with Racing, the striker returned to Quito on a permanent basis for a second stint with the club.

Bieler will be added to Sporting's roster pending receipt of his ITC and P-1 visa, and will occupy a senior international roster spot.