After considerable speculation, Toronto FC confirmed Friday that the club has signed striker Jozy Altidore from English Premier League club Sunderland in exchange for Jermain Defoe.
Altidore, who joins Toronto as a Designated Player, was in his second season with Sunderland, where he appeared in a total of 52 matches and scored three goals.
"Our top priority is building a winning club with players that are committed to the TFC vision," said Toronto FC General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. "Jozy is a special player, and checks off all of the boxes that we look for in a player. We are excited to finalize this deal and bring him to Toronto FC."
Altidore, 25, has earned 76 caps with the United States national team, scoring 25 goals since his international debut in 2007.
Defoe, 32, was acquired through a transfer with Tottenham and signed as a Designated Player ahead of last season. The Englishman made a combined 21 appearances for TFC, scoring 12 goals and added three assists for the Canadian club.
"It became clear that a return for Jermain to the English Premier League was going to be in the best interests of both sides," Bezbatchenko continued. "We'd like to thank Jermain for his contributions to Toronto FC and wish him well."
[SportsNetwork.com]
