Paulo Wanchope and the allocation process
December 18, 2006

Man, is the offseason boring (of course, we said that last year, and look how that ended up). And it figures to be boring for a couple more weeks, until we enter the new year and gain the ability to acquire players from outside MLS (of course, last year that got us Peter Canero).

So let's consider the one of the newer rumors floating around, Paulo Wanchope. The Costa Rican striker just quit his Argentine team and is looking for suitors. He already has confirmed RBNY contact on his website, and could be a solid addition for goal-starved Metro.

But there's always a but. Wanchope probably doesn't fit the Designated Player slot profile, so unless Metro is willing to give up one of their two, they would have to sign him with an allocation. And although they have one from the Jean-Philippe Peguero sale, it's supposedly located low on the MLS pecking order, which means that other teams could get a stab at Wanchope before Metro ever does. With our old "pal" Alexi Lalas is already making overtures into bringing Paulo into his LA "SuperClub", it means that Metro will likely have a dogfight on their hands.

Which brings us to the whole allocation process. Two years ago, MLS tried to make it more clear, providing a full allocation list on their website. It hasn't been updated since last April. So who knows where Metro and LA stand? And even if the list was updated, who knows what methods MLS uses to come up with the order?

At the end, we don't know Wanchope's desires. If he wants to play in LA, let him play in LA. If he wants to play in New York, let him play in New York. Of course, knowing MLS, he will end up in Columbus... and Metro will be forced to trade their firstborn to the Crew for his services.

Time to wise up, MLS. Don't stand on the way of letting players play where they want to play. Even if it is in LA.

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