Rumors are abounding in the last few days regarding a possible move by Marco Pappa to Dutch side FC Twente, although at this point there’s much speculation, and less solid evidence of a definitive transfer. Pappa, who has netted 5 goals this season for the Fire, is under contract until the end of the 2012 season. He has struggled this year, however, most recently trying to find his role under Frank Klopas’ new strategy that includes Mexican international Pavel Pardo, as well as Argentine playmaker Sebastian Grazzini. Pappa’s last goal came at home against New York Red Bulls on June 26th, over two months ago.
Talk started a few weeks back, when it was reported that Twente was interested in pursuing Pappa, although they did not have a spot on the roster for him at the time. All that changed yesterday, however, as Costa Rican Bryan Ruiz was transferred to EPL’s Fulham before the deadline, making room for the Guatemalan to join if FC Twente decided to go after him. Reportedly, Marco Pappa posted the following update on his Facebook account sometime yesterday afternoon:
“Casi cerrado el traspaso al twente!! holandes!!”
indicating that a transfer was imminent, and close to complete. While the post no longer appears on his page (possibly at his own discretion, or the guidance of his agent), multiple foreign sources are reporting similar stories, that Ruiz’s departure has paved the way for Pappa to land at FC Twente. The timing would be advantageous as well, as Pappa left the Chicago Fire camp after Tuesday’s USOC match against Richmond Kickers, to join his national squad for upcoming matches during the MLS break.
Whether or not the move actually happens remains to be seen at this point. With the talk surrounding the potential move overseas, as well as Pappa’s comments earlier in the season showing a desire to head to Europe once his tenure with Chicago was done, it seems a viable option, albeit one that has yet to be confirmed by the Chicago Fire, FC Twente, or MLS. More details on this story as they develop. Stay tuned.
Image courtesy of chicago-fire.com
