The Portland Timbers acquired Peruvian defender Miguel Araujo in a full transfer from Dutch side FC Emmen, the club announced Friday.

The 28-year-old center back is under contract through 2025 with a club option in 2026.

Araujo will occupy an international spot on the roster. He is eligible to play after the MLS transfer window opens on Wednesday.

“We are pleased to welcome Miguel to the Portland Timbers,” Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy said. “We believe Miguel provides us another solid option in defense, and his experience playing in various leagues and competitions throughout his career will be invaluable.”

Araujo registered 12 goals and four assists in 118 matches over five seasons (2019-23) at FC Emmen, playing in the Netherlands’ top-tier league Eredivisie.

A new presence in Portland ??

Read more about #RCTID's newest signing here:

— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) June 30, 2023

“We feel Araujo’s experience, coming from a competitive league like the Dutch league, will make that position a very competitive one,” Timbers head coach Giovanni Savarese said. “Araujo is an international player in the Peruvian National Team, so we’re excited to have a lot of leadership in that position. We’re glad he’ll be joining our club.”

Internationally, Araujo has made 28 appearances for Peru’s national team, including the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

–Field Level Media