Philadelphia Union, forward Cory Burke agree to contract extension

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Extension

The Philadelphia Union and forward Cory Burke have agreed to a contract extension through 2022 with an option for 2023, the club announced Wednesday. 

Burke, who will turn 29 this month, returned to the Union towards the end of the season after 18 months gone due to a visa snafu. He has 14 goals in 41 appearances (20 starts) over the last three seasons, with 10 goals in 15 starts in 2018, the only full season he was available.

"We’re excited to have come to an agreement on a new contract with Cory. He is a very talented striker who instantly strengthens our attack and solidifies our depth up top,” sporting director Ernst Tanner said in a club statement. “Cory has consistently shown his value on the pitch with his dedication, hard work and ability to finish. He has become a valuable striker who runs hard in the box and has the ability to make a play defensively to start the attack.”

Burke spent time on loan with Portmore United in Jamaica and SKN St. Polten in Austria. He has 18 caps with the Jamaican national team. 

The club also announced their contract decisions on Wednesday. Burke, Kacper Przybylko and Sergio Santos are now the club's three forwards under contract. They'll be expected to add another this winter.