Real Salt Lake made their first big moves of the offseason on Monday, re-signing veteran midfielder Ned Grabavoy and adding goalkeeping prospect Eduardo “Lalo” Fernández as a Home Grown signing, MLSsoccer.com has learned.
Grabavoy’s new deal extends through the 2013 season, according to RSL general manager Garth Lagerwey. The Chicago native (above) played in 25 games last season and will likely be heavily relied on once again, especially in light of the recent retirement of midfielder Andy Williams.
“I couldn't be happier to have the opportunity to continue my career with RSL,” Grabavoy said in a statement. “This is one of the proudest moments of my career. I’m excited to find myself in a great situation for continued success.”
Fernandez, meanwhile, steps into the senior team after graduating from RSL’s Arizona academy. The El Paso, Texas, native most recent played for Peñarol in the Uruguayan Primera División and spent some time in the youth system of famed Mexican side CD Guadalajara. He has also seen some time with both US and Mexican youth national team squads.
According to Lagerwey, Fernández will be RSL’s third-string goalkeeper behind Nick Rimando and Kyle Reynish.
The signings mark the first additions to Real Salt Lake’s roster this offseason. The club has parted with nine members of the 2011 squad, including Robbie Russell, Collen Warner, Arturo Alvarez, Rauwshawn McKenzie, Jean Alexandre and Williams.
