New York City FC signed Norwegian defender Birk Risa to a permanent transfer contract through 2025 with an option for 2026 on Monday.

Risa, 25, will join NYCFC upon receipt of his visa.

He most recently played for Norwegian side Molde FK in the country’s top division, appearing in 95 matches and recording three goals and six assists across all competitions, including the UEFA Europa League.

“We are thrilled to welcome Birk to New York City,” sporting director David Lee said. “Birk is a left-footed center back whose ability to play from the back will fit into our system and style of play. Birk is entering his prime and will bring quality and depth to the center back position as we turn our attention to the second half of the season and toward playoffs.”

NYCFC, who won the 2021 MLS Cup, have some work to do to earn a playoff berth. The club is 5-8-11 (26 points) and in 13th place in the Eastern Conference standings, four points out of the final playoff spot.

–Field Level Media