The Cosmos fortified their back line Wednesday, signing former D.C. United and Canadian international center back Dejan Jakovic and Argentine midfielder Emmanuel Ledesma.
Jackovic’s deal is pending International Transfer Certificate approval. As per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“We welcome Dejan to the organization,” Cosmos head coach and sporting director Giovanni Savarese said in a statement. “He is a very seasoned player who can add positive things to the squad. We look forward to seeing him on the pitch.”
The 31-year-old Jakovic began playing professional soccer in Canada before moving to Serbian side Red Star Belgrade in 2008. He joined United )MLS) in 2009, helping the club capture the 2013 Lamar Hunt/U.S. Open Cup title. After that season, Jakovic transferred to Japanese club Shimizu S-Pulse until signing with the Cosmos.
The Canadian international made his senior debut in 2008 and represented his country during the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
“It is a great honor to join the New York Cosmos,” Jakovic said “This is a team with great history and numerous accomplishments. I am delighted to play for such prestigious club.”
Ledesma, 28, spent his pro career playing in Italy, England, Argentina and Greece.
“Emanuel joined the team during preseason and showed some interesting progress,” Savarese said. “He will definitely add depth and quality to our squad, as we look to open the 2017 Season in great fashion.”
The Cosmos begin their NASL season, traveling to Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium to meet Puerto Rico FC Saturday. The Cosmos’ home opener will take place at MCU Park in Brooklyn against Miami FC Saturday, April 1 at 7 p.m.
