D.C. United midfielder Fred to sign with Australian club Melbourne Heart

D.C. United announced today the club will allow Fred to sign with Melbourne Heart in Australia on a free transfer. The Brazilian midfielder will remain with the Black-and-Red until the international transfer window opens in July. 

“When we re-acquired Fred earlier this year, we agreed in principle that we would let him go if he had an opportunity to sign abroad for a better contract,” said General Manager Dave Kasper. “Fred has been nothing but a professional throughout his time at D.C. United and we have granted his request. The move will also free up significant salary as we look to improve our team during the upcoming transfer window. We thank Fred for his contributions to D.C. United and we wish him the best of luck.” 

Fred has played in 12 games (5 starts) for the Black-and-Red in 2011, totaling 469 minutes on the field and collecting one assist.

Fred returned to D.C. United on February 2011 after playing for Philadelphia Union during the 2010 season. While a member of the Union, Fred played in 25 games (24 starts), totaling 1,913 minutes on the field and contributing four goals and an assist.

Prior to his time in Philadelphia, Fred spent three full seasons with the Black-and-Red (2007-2009). In 72 total games (60 starts), the midfielder collected 11 goals and 16 assists. His best season with the Black-and-Red came during his first year in the League when he notched seven goals and seven assists during the 2007 season. Fred helped D.C. capture two trophies during his first stint with United – the 2007 Supporters’ Shield and the 2008 U.S. Open Cup. 

In 2006 Fred signed with Australian side Melbourne Victory, the cross-town rivals of his future club Melbourne Heart. During the 2006-07 season he was one of the standout players in the A-League, helping his team win the Championship and the Premiership. He was also named the A-League Player of the Year.