Real Salt Lake sign former Italy international forward Giuseppe Rossi

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Signing

After he was with the squad training this preseason, Real Salt Lake have signed former Italy international forward Giuseppe Rossi, the club announced Thursday. 

Rossi, 33, has scored 128 goals in 336 matches across all competitions for clubs in the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga. The New Jersey native has battled injuries over the last few years, though, as he last made double-digit appearances in 2016-17 with Celta Vigo in La Liga and has been without a club since the summer of 2018.

“It feels great to now be a part of Real Salt Lake,” Rossi said in a club statement. “I can’t wait to step onto the pitch and help RSL achieve all the goals we’ve set this year. For me, MLS has been growing every year and has produced an exciting product. I’m lucky enough to have RSL be my first contact in the league during this process. The club’s respect and kindness towards me is something I appreciate immensely. I can’t wait to see and meet the fans and immerse myself in the RSL culture. Along with the rest of the team, I can’t wait to begin this season and enjoy the journey together.”

Rossi enjoyed his best seasons in La Liga, scoring double-digit league goals in four straight seasons from 2007-11 with Villarreal. He also impressed in Serie A with Fiorentina. He had seven goals in 30 appearances with the Italian national team.

“Giuseppe’s resume speaks for itself,” GM Elliot Fall said. “He brings an impressive level of international experience to an already talented and cohesive roster. Watching him in preseason it’s clear he has a lot to offer to our club. He has handled himself immaculately off the field and has fit in seamlessly with the group and has already served as a mentor for the young guys on our team.”

Rossi gives head coach Freddy Juarez another versatile option in attack, alongside the likes of Corey Baird, Sam Johnson, Jeizon Ramirez, Albert Rusnak and others. 

Real Salt Lake kick off their 2020 campaign on Saturday against Orlando City SC (6 pm ET | MLS Live on ESPN+ in US, DAZN in Canada).