Forward thinking continues
Acquiring Elis permanently shows ‘ambition’
In a move that shows the ownership group’s willingness to spend big money, the Dynamo have acquired forward Alberth Elis on a permanent transfer from Mexican club Monterrey.
Elis spent the 2017 season on loan with the Dynamo. As is the case with all loans to MLS clubs, the Dynamo had a purchase option on his contract.
According to a report by Julio Cesar Cruz of the Honduran publication Diario Diez, the Dynamo paid Monterrey a $2.5 million transfer fee. Cruz also reported Elis is under contract through the 2021 season. The Dynamo have not confirmed either of those details.
“The transfer of Alberth Elis to the Houston Dynamo sends a clear message from our ownership group and club to our fanbase and throughout MLS about our intent and ambition,” General manager Matt Jordan said in a statement. “At just 21 years old, Alberth is already one of the top players in CONCACAF and is a constant threat to opposing defenses. He has transitioned well to the city of Houston and our league, and we look forward to seeing him continue to grow and develop working with our coaching staff.”
Elis, 21, was the team’s most electric player in 2017. His speed on the counterattack gave opponents fits all season.
The Honduran international had 10 goals and four assists in 26 regular-season appearances. He also scored the winning goal of the knockout round game against Sporting Kansas City.
“We are looking forward to Alberth continuing to bring his desire to attack defenders with his speed, his decisionmaking and his scoring mentality,” Dynamo coach Wilmer Cabrera said in a statement. “That is something that Alberth brought in 2017 and we hope he brings that again in 2018. We are going to help him develop different skills so he can grow as a player and help the team.”
Elis is the second loaned player the Dynamo have acquired on a permanent basis this offseason. They also purchased the contract of midfielder Juan David Cabezas from Colombian club Deportivo Cali.