Transfer Rumors: New England to Sign Aljaz Ivacic, Dave Romney on Trade Block

Moves are being made

Photo Courtesy of Portland Timbers

After a horrid start to the MLS season, the New England Revolution appear ready to make changes according to Tom Bogert of The Athletic.

In a comprehensive piece, Bogert reported that New England is on the precipice of signing Serbian goalkeeper Aljaz Ivacic as well as working on a trade for Seattle Sounders center back Xavier Arreaga.

Both these players come with controversy.

Ivacic was waived by the Portland Timbers after being suspended by MLS for using '“threatening language” towards members of Portland’s staff. Arreaga also faced back lash for posting the below comic/illustration.

He later apologized for posting the image to his story.

When it comes to the duo’s play on the field. Ivacic made 56 apps with Portland and won the Timbers 2022 supporters’ player of the year. In 2023, the goalkeeper made 15 starts with two clean sheets.

Another interesting wrinkle to his potential signing is that he is represented by Rabona Sports, the same agency that represents former Revolution goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic.

Bogert added that Ivacic is expected to compete with Henrich Ravas for the starting goalkeeper spot.

Arreaga has had a lengthy career with the Sounders. He has made over 100 appearances but has fallen out of favor with in over the last two years.

With these additions must come some losses and it looks like New England will be shedding a few players according to Bogert. The MLS insider stated that the Revolution plan on releasing Jacob Jackson while Dave Romney is on the trading block.

Romney has been a staple in New England’s back line playing every single minute in 2023 but appears to have fallen out of favor with Caleb Porter as he was benched in the Revolution’s loss to Toronto FC.

Caleb Porter Comments on Benching Dave Romney

Changes are coming to New England but after a difficult start will it be enough to change the fortunes of the Revolution? Only time will tell but they won’t go down without a fight in 2024.