Team adds final piece in Hoesen

SAN JOSE >> The Earthquakes completed the final piece of the offense Friday ahead of the New Year, acquiring Dutch forward Danny Hoesen on a permanent transfer.

The addition of Hoesen gives San Jose a solid frontline attack as he joins star Chris Wondolowski and Swedish newcomer Magnus Eriksson.

Hoesen, 26, played for the Quakes last season on loan from Holland’s FC Groningen. He had five goals and five assists in 32 Major League Soccer appearances. The team announced Friday it had signed the Dutch-Moroccan using targeted allocation money.

Quakes general manager Jesse Fioranelli had previously said signing Hoesen was a priority.

“He was a positive influence on our locker room and a steady contributor throughout the season,” Fioranelli said in a statement.

Hoesen also was the team’s top scorer in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup after scoring in three consecutive games. His performance helped the Quakes advance to the semifinals for the first time since 2004.

The team is not expected to make any more major offseason moves beyond the MLS draft Jan. 19. Fioranelli and technical director Chris Leitch worked in the offseason to have most of the team in place ahead of the opening of winter camp at the end of January. The Earthquakes have five potential draft picks, including the 12th overall selection and two second-round choices.

The season begins March 3 at Avaya Stadium against Minnesota United FC.