Sounders get salary help, sign Dempsey to new deal for 2018

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Seattle Sounders' Clint Dempsey smiles as he kicks a ball into the stands after scoring the second of his two goals against the Vancouver Whitecaps during the second half of the second leg of an MLS soccer Western Conference semifinal, Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017, in Seattle. The Sounders won 2-0. Photo: Associated Press/Elaine Thompson

The Seattle Sounders have signed forward Clint Dempsey to a one-year deal for the 2018 season that provides more salary flexibility for the club.

Seattle general manager Garth Lagerwey confirmed the new deal with Dempsey on Tuesday, three days after the Sounders stumbled in their attempt to win a second straight MLS Cup title. The Sounders lost to Toronto 2-0 in the final Saturday.

Lagerwey did not get into specifics about Dempsey’s deal but did confirm he will be a designated player for Seattle and that the contract is only for the 2018 season. Dempsey’s previous contract had a team option for the 2018 season but was more of a hit against Seattle’s salary cap.

Dempsey returned from an irregular heartbeat that ended his 2016 season early to lead the Sounders in 2017 with 12 goals in the regular season and three more in the playoffs.

Although the Sounders are able to keep Dempsey, Seattle goalkeeper Tyler Miller is the Los Angeles Football Club’s first pick in the Major League Soccer expansion draft.

LAFC on Tuesday also chose Sporting Kansas City forward Latif Blessing, San Jose forward Marco Urena, Columbus left back Jukka Raitala and Toronto defender Raheem Edwards.

LAFC general manager John Thorrington is uncertain how many of the five players will be with the club when it begins play as MLS’ 23rd franchise in March. Some of Thorrington’s selections could be moved again soon in trades.

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