Real Salt Lake has exercised the buy option on Venezuelan forward Jefferson Savarino, club owner Dell Loy Hansen announced Thursday.
Savarino, 20, will remain with RSL on a permanent deal after a six-month loan from Venezuelan side Zulia FC.
“It’s a huge step in the process we’ve been going through and a massive commitment from our owner, one which exemplifies where we are in the sport of soccer in the United States but also individually as a club,” said RSL General Manager Craig Waibel.
“We are in the process of successfully redesigning and redefining who we are, and Jefferson is a huge part of it.”
Savarino racked up six goals and five assists in 22 apperances in his first MLS season after arriving in May. He will still occupy a Young Designated Player spot on the roster.
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“I feel content being here. I’m happy to be here in Utah and I always thank God for being here,” said Savarino.
“I’m a person who is never content with what I have accomplished. Now it is time to prepare and I will prepare the best that I can during our time off to keep growing as person and as a professional.”