Whitecaps acquire Australian D Giuseppe Bovalina

The Vancouver Whitecaps acquired 19-year-old defender Giuseppe Bovalina from Adelaide United FC in his native Australia.

The contract announced Tuesday runs through the 2026 MLS season and includes club options for 2027 and 2028.

"We are pleased to welcome Giuseppe to Vancouver," Whitecaps FC sporting director Axel Schuster said in a statement. "At 19, he has already been a consistent starter for his team, and we have tracked him as one of the top players in his position in the A-League.

"He brings qualities at both ends of the pitch and we are happy that we were able to convince him that we are the right club with our plan and pathway. We're looking forward to helping him develop his qualities to the next level."

Bovalina recorded one goal and two assists in 23 matches with Adelaide since signing his first professional contract last September.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity that is being given to me and I can't wait to arrive," Bovalina said. "I will work hard and give my all for Vancouver. I am also excited to get started and play in such an amazing stadium and fan base."