Portland signs Costa Rican international David Guzman

The Portland Timbers added to an already formidable midfield Thursday, as the club announced the signing of Costa Rican David Guzman on a transfer from Deportivo Saprissa.

The 26-year-old will be added to the roster “pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and P-1 visa.”

Guzman will make the switch to Major League Soccer after 184 appearances in his nation’s top flight, split between perennial powerhouse Saprissa and C.S. Cartagines.

“David is an experienced player we have tracked for some time and one who fits the positional profile we targeted this offseason,” general manager Gavin Wilkinson said of the move.

“He has experienced what it is like to play in Portland and is very excited about this opportunity to join the Timbers. We are pleased to welcome him to the club and his new city.”

The signing of Guzman, who has earned 25 senior international caps with Los Ticos, should add another impressive element to a midfield that already boasts the creativity of Diego Valeri and the ferocity of Diego Chara.

It also comes as reports continue to swirl over the future of stalwart Darlington Nagbe, who is said to be a target of Scottish giant Celtic.

“Guzman is a true No. 6 and will be a good fit on both sides of the ball,” head coach Caleb Porter said of his newest player.

“He is a technical, possession-type player and is smart positionally to help connect our midfield and back line defensively. David is also hungry to win more trophies, and we feel his edge will complement the other players in our squad.”