Sounders get help, sign Dempsey

Tukwila, Wash. — The Seattle Sounders will have Clint Dempsey when they try to make it to a third straight MLS Cup final.

Seattle general manger Garth Lagerwey confirmed Tuesday that the club has signed Dempsey to a one-year deal for the 2018 season that will keep the forward with the Sounders while giving the team greater salary flexibility. Having the improved flexibility is important for Lagerwey as the Sounders try to build a roster that can chase a third straight Western Conference title in 2018.

Lagerwey did not get into specifics about Dempsey's deal but did confirm he will be a designated player for Seattle and that the contract is only for 2018. Dempsey's previous contract had a team option for the 2018 season but was more of a hit against Seattle's salary cap.

“Clint worked with us and he's taking less money than he was on before to come back. Still well-paid, well-compensated, but yes we hope long term that creates a little more balance with respect to our (designated player) spend,” Lagerwey said.

Lagerwey was already looking ahead to next year just three days after the Sounders stumbled in their attempt to win a second straight MLS Cup title. The Sounders lost to Toronto 2-0 in the final Saturday. By Tuesday, they had to make key roster decisions for moving ahead.

Dempsey was one of the bigger decisions, although a new deal has been expected for several weeks. Dempsey returned from an irregular heartbeat that ended his 2016 season early to lead the Sounders in 2017 with 12 goals in the regular season and three more in the playoffs.

With Dempsey secured and 11 other players with their contract options exercised, the Sounders have 22 players under contract.