Union lock up Torres

Chester, Pa. (The Phanatic Magazine) - The Philadelphia Union have exercised their option to retain the services of midfielder Roger Torres; completing the transfer of Torres from América de Cali.

Torres had been on loan from the Colombian side for the 2010 and 2011 seasons.   Per Major League Soccer and club policy, terms of the transfer will not be disclosed.

Torres has emerged as one of the league's most exciting young playmakers in his two seasons on loan with Philadelphia. In 46 appearances, including 19 starts, the 20-year-old Colombian has scored three goals and registered eight assists in only 1,889 minutes. All three of Torres' goals came in 2011, including his first MLS goal against the New York Red Bulls in a 1-0 win on April 9.

"We're very happy to keep Roger in Philadelphia and see the benefits of the investment we've made in him," said Union Team Manager Peter Nowak. "Roger has shown the ability to be a valuable playmaker and we look forward to helping him continue his development."

Torres debuted with América de Cali in 2009, starting all 15 games in which he played. In 2008, he played his first professional game with Colombian First-Division-B club Alianza Petrolera.

"I'm thrilled to remain in Philadelphia, where I've become comfortable with my teammates and the coaching staff," Torres said. "I love to play in front of our fans at PPL Park and will continue working hard so I can help the team reach its goals."