Canada international striker Adriana Leon is making a short-term transfer from Manchester United to the NWSL’s Portland Thorns.
The hope is that the deal, which runs until June 30, will give Leon playing time ahead of this summer’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. The Canadian team is expected to travel to Australia for a pre-tournament camp in early July.
Leon has seen limited action in England lately with injuries playing a part.
The 30-year-old, from King City, Ontario, signed for Manchester United last July after 3 1/2 seasons at West Ham United. Since joining Man United she has made nine appearances, scoring three goals.
“We have been presented with the opportunity to bring Adriana to Portland and we believe this is a move that is beneficial to both the club and Adriana,” said Thorns GM Karina LeBlanc, a compatriot from Canada, in an explanation. “She wants to be here and take the opportunity in a competitive environment ahead of the World Cup. Adriana has the ability to make a difference when we empower this special group with her talent to keep pushing us forward.”
Portland is also home to Canada captain Christine Sinclair, who also serves as Thorns skipper, and injured forward Janine Beckie.
“Adriana is an excellent addition to our extensive and talented squad,” said Thorns head coach Mike Norris. “She brings a wealth of experience both at international and club level. A quintessential winger, she enjoys playing up front and approaching defenders and we think she will suit our style of play well.”
Leon, who scored 28 goals in 96 caps, started in Canada’s 2-1 defeat by France at Le Mans on Tuesday.
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