D.C. United announced two personnel moves Friday: the signing of first-round draft pick Michael DeShields and the hiring Nicolás Frutos as an assistant under new coach Hernán Losada.
DeShields, a Baltimore native who starred at Wake Forest, was the fifth overall selection in the MLS draft last month. Terms were not disclosed.
United is in talks with its other first-rounder, Clemson attacker Kimarni Smith, the No. 4 pick, and Stanford right back Logan Panchot, a second-round selection.
DeShields becomes the fourth center back on the roster, joining Steven Birnbaum, Frédéric Brillant and Donovan Pines.