Columbus Crew SC continued building for 2017 with the announcement of the permanent transfer of Cristian Martinez from Chorillo FC.
Martinez had spent 2016 on loan with Crew SC and made appearances with affiliate Pittsburgh Riverhounds in his first season in the United States. The team already exercised his option after the 2016 season and head coach Gregg Berhalter previously voiced his desire to bring Martinez in on a permanent deal.
Martinez joined the Black & Gold in May last year as a signing for the future, but given an wave of injury he made his debut on June 1st as a substitute.