It looks as though former Toronto FC defender Nana Attakora might have some career options outside of Major League Soccer.
In an email to sportsnet.ca, Attakora’s agent said that his recent performances for Canada’s under-23 team in CONCACAF Olympic qualifying haven’t gone unnoticed by non-MLS clubs who are interested in him.
“A lot has changed since last week given his recent U23 performances,” wrote Marcos Serioux. “He’s got a few suitors at the moment outside MLS. (We’ll) wait till the smoke clears and see what presents itself in the coming days.”
Attakora, a 23-year-old native of North York, Ont., is currently serving as captain of Canada’s Olympic side, and played in the team’s opening two group stage matches, including a 2-0 upset win over the United States.
He didn’t appear in Monday’s 1-1 draw with Cuba, but is expected to start in Saturday’s winner-take-all semifinal against Mexico in Kansas City — the winner of that match qualifies for the London Games.
Last Tuesday, Attakora told sportsnet.ca that San Jose was actively trying to ship his rights to another MLS team and that he expected a trade to be completed by the end of the week.
Attakora spent the last half of the 2011 MLS season with San Jose following a summer trade from Toronto.
He is currently out of contract with the Earthquakes, although San Jose still retains his rights as per MLS’ collective bargaining agreement — unlike other North American sports leagues where players are free to sign with another team once their contracts are completed.
As a result, his MLS career remains in limbo, but it would appear he might be able to sign with a foreign club, thus getting his playing career back on track.
“His recent play (for Canada) has drawn some interest, and him being a free agent is an added bonus,” wrote Serioux.
Sportsnet.ca will be following this story as it unfold over the coming days.