Chicago Fire claim GK David Ousted on waivers from DC United

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Signing

The Chicago Fire announced Sunday they had claimed goalkeeper David Ousted off waivers from D.C. United. Ousted is under contract with the Fire for 2019, with a club option for 2020, and will fill an international roster spot.

Separately Sunday, the Fire waived defender Nicolas Del Grecco, who was occupying an international roster slot.

NEWS | The Club has acquired goalkeeper @David_Ousted. Welcome, David! 🧤

More: https://t.co/YMJQ42Ycvt #cf97 pic.twitter.com/H6AfVXr44h

— Chicago Fire (@ChicagoFire) January 27, 2019

The 33-year-old Ousted, who has made 159 MLS appearances over six MLS seasons, joins a Fire goalkeeping corps that includes Richard Sanchez and Stefan Cleveland, who have 32 league appearances between them.

“We set out to find an experienced goalkeeper to complete our corps,” Fire president and GM Nelson Rodriguez said in a statement. “In David we have secured a proven first-choice goalkeeper who retains a hunger to compete. His familiarity with MLS is a bonus.”

Very happy to be joining @chicagofire I can’t wait to play in front of the fans and bring my hard work, dedication and passion to Chicago. Looking forward to a great season #cf97 #newopportunity #excited

— David Ousted (@David_Ousted) January 27, 2019

Ousted spent five seasons with Vancouver Whitecaps before joining D.C. last year, where he was ultimately replaced as a starter by the mid-season return of Bill Hamid. Since entering MLS in 2013, Ousted has compiled the third-most shutouts (42) in the league, including an MLS career-high 13 shutouts in 2014 and 2015. He also has two MLS All-Star appearances.

“David’s goalkeeper qualities and his ability to earn shutouts are traits that we were searching for,” Chicago coach Veljko Paunovic said in a statement. “We believe that he will use his leadership to improve our defense and our defensive performances.”