TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Signing
Marc Dos Santos and the Vancouver Whitecaps continued their rebuild on Friday, this time adding Tunisian international center back Jasser Khmiri. Khmiri is the first Tunisian signed by an MLS club.
The center back was signed via transfer from Stade Tunisien and agreed to a three-year contract, plus an option year, pending receipt of his ITC, work permit, visa and medical exams. He will occupy an international roster spot. Khmiri joins Derek Cornelius and Doneil Henry in the Whitecaps' center back rotation for the 2019 season, with more additions potentially still to come.
“Jasser is a player who caught our eye thanks to his strong performances with the Tunisian U-21 national team,” said Dos Santos in a statement. “He’s 6-foot-4, he has very good speed, and he’s comfortable with the ball, which are all qualities we are looking for in a centre back. At 21 years old, we believe Jasser has a tremendous upside and that he can become an important player for this club.”
Khmiri burst onto the scene with outstanding performances at the youth level with the Tunisian national team. He was first called up to Tunisia’s senior national team in preparation for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, including a camp last January in Qatar, then again in September of 2018.
The native of Tunis, Tunisia, made his professional debut at the age of 18 with Stade Tunisien in May 2016. He played three seasons with Stade Tunisien, collecting 38 appearances and scoring three goals including cup competition.
