Defensive midfielder Dixon Arroyo signed a contract through the rest of the season with Inter Miami CF on Thursday.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed by the MLS club, which holds an option for 2024.

Arroyo arrives on a free transfer after serving as captain of Ecuadorian top-flight side Emelec.

“We’re happy to be able to reinforce our squad with an experienced, combative defensive midfielder like Dixon,” Inter Miami chief soccer officer and sporting director Chris Henderson said. “He’s a leader and an imposing figure in the middle of the field that we feel will help fill a need for us, especially as Gregore continues his recovery.”

Gregore, also a defensive midfielder, sustained a foot injury that could sideline him through mid-September.

Arroyo, 30, has totaled 17 goals and 15 assists in 384 matches across all competitions with Ecuador-based teams SD Quito, LDU Loja, Independiente del Valle and Emelec.

“I’m very thankful and honored to join Inter Miami, an ambitious club in a highly competitive league with a very passionate fan base,” Arroyo said. “I’m eager to work tirelessly and leave it all on and off the pitch to achieve the objectives set.”

–Field Level Media