The American defender is set to end a long career with Fulham to strengthen the North Carolina franchise.
Diego Mayel Ibarradiegoibarra21Joe Brennanj4brennanUpdate: Jun 5th, 2024 07:41 EDT0
JUSTIN TALLISAFP
Charlotte FC are close to signing center back Tim Ream for the second half of Major League Soccer 2024.
The U.S. National Team defender is reportedly set to end a lengthy career with Premier League side Fulham to bolster the back line of the franchise from Bank of America Stadium.
Charlotte FC are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign 36-year-old Fulham and USMNT centerback Tim Ream, per @Topbin90. pic.twitter.com/DLZw4JPXpR
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) June 4, 2024
As Tom Bogert reports for The Athletic, following TopBin90′s initial report, talks between the North Carolina side and the 36-year-old are well underway. Ream’s performances in England have been important for the Cottagers, but his contract expires in mid-2025 and this season he already shown physical problems that kept him away from the pitch.
Right now, the defender is training with the USMNT ahead of the Copa América 2024, although the way they lined up towards the end of the season, it is expected that Chris Richards and Cameron Carter-Vickers will be the first options for Gregg Berhalter for the tournament between CONMEBOL and CONCACAF: Ream will play the role of backup defender.
Charlotte FC are in fifth place in the Eastern Conference under Dean Smith, a coach who had his managerial training in the Premier League. In the case that Ream lands in North Carolina, the objectives would be clear: make the playoffs. Having only conceded 18 goals so far, Charlotte FC are the fourth best defence in MLS this season.
25th August 2015: Tim Ream makes his debut for Fulham in a 3-0 win over Sheffield United.7th October 2023: Tim Ream makes his 300th appearance for Fulham in a 3-1 win over Sheffield United.Full circle. ⭕️ pic.twitter.com/UNzELg9jep
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) October 7, 2023
