SAN JOSE — The Earthquakes lost out on the Alan Pulido move to Major League Soccer.
But they got the player they perhaps needed most. San Jose officials announced Wednesday they have permanently acquired 2019 loanee Cristian Espinoza from Spain’s Villarreal CF in a club-record transfer fee. The Quakes have signed the dynamic winger to a multi-year Designated Player contract, the team announced.
“Cristian was a very important player for us this year,” Earthquakes coach Matias Almeyda said in a statement. “His qualities are not easily replicated and I’m happy he will continue with us.”
Pulido landed at Sports Kansas City after a successful season with Chivas de Guadalajara of the Mexican league.