TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Transfer
UPDATE, July 7 — San Jose Earthquakes have transferred defender Francisco Calvo to Turkish Süper Lig side Konyaspor, the MLS club announced Thursday.
Calvo’s time in San Jose was short-lived after joining the Quakes ahead of the 2022 MLS season, following a five-year run split between Minnesota United and Chicago Fire FC. In his 13 appearances with the Bay Area side, the Costa Rican recorded two goals and one assist. The 29-year-old also ranks third in MLS in interceptions with 35.
“After speaking with Francisco and learning of his aspirations as a person and as a player, this opportunity makes sense for both sides,” said Earthquakes general manager Chris Leitch in a release. “We appreciate his efforts this year and wish him well in Turkey.”
The one-time MLS All-Star, a regular with the Costa Rican national team, recently helped Los Ticos stamp their ticket to the 2022 FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 win over New Zealand. They are in Group E along with Spain, Germany and Japan.
ORIGINAL, June 22 — Could Francisco Calvo’s days with the San Jose Earthquakes be numbered?
The Costa Rican defender is linked with a move to Europe, with Fabrizio Romano mentioning Konyaspor in Turkey’s Super Lig as a possible destination. The Turkish transfer window opened June 17 and is open until Sept. 8.
Calvo has been solid for the Quakes in the first half of the season after signing as a free agent in January. The 29-year-old leads MLS with 35 interceptions, is third in passes attempted (933) and leads San Jose in minutes played among defenders. His 83.5 passing percentage this season is the highest in his MLS career.
Calvo, a regular starter for the Ticos, who clinched a Qatar 2022 World Cup berth last week courtesy of a 1-0 win over New Zealand, made his move to MLS ahead of the 2017 season when he signed with Minnesota United FC. He was a regular starter for the Loons and was named an MLS All-Star in 2018. He was traded to Chicago Fire FC midway through the 2019 season, where he made 39 regular-season appearances with 38 starts.
Calvo had his option declined by the Fire after the 2021 campaign and has enjoyed a resurgence in San Jose. His contract with the Quakes goes through the 2022 season with a club option for 2023.
