Sounders sign Léo Chú from Grêmio – Winger joins as part of U22 Initiative

Benezet also joins 

Major League Soccer side Seattle Sounders announced on Thursday the acquisition of Brazilian winger Léo Chú from Brazilian side Grêmio and the arrival of French winger Nicolas Benezet from the Colorado Rapids. While Chú was signed for $3 million from Grêmio and will be part of the MLS U22 Initiative, Benezet was acquired in a trade for $50,000 General Allocation Money—the Rapids could receive an additional $50,000 GAM if certain conditions are met. 

“We are pleased to add two quality players in Léo and Nicolas before the end of the secondary transfer window,” Sounders FC general manager Garth Lagerway said in a club statement. “In Léo’s case, we were able to utilize the league’s new under-22 player initiative, and he is a player that was high on our list in this regard. His speed and versatility make him an intriguing option for our club, and like any young player, we are looking forward to integrating him into the organization and giving him the tools to succeed.” 

A product of the Grêmio academy, Chú is a significant investment for the Sounders. The 21-year-old becomes the fifth-most expensive signing in club history. Chú has managed three goals and seven assists in 26 Série A games for Ceará and Grêmio. 

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