Timbers sign Venezuelan F Kevin Kelsy through 2028

The Portland Timbers signed Venezuelan forward Kevin Kelsy through the 2028 season with an option for 2029, the club announced Wednesday.

Portland acquired Kelsy, 20, from Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk for an undisclosed transfer fee after trading $75,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money to FC Cincinnati for his right of first refusal.

Cincinnati also will receive up to an additional $100,000 in conditional GAM if certain performance-based metrics are achieved.

Kelsy, who will occupy a U22 Initiative roster slot, had six goals in 23 matches (16 starts) for Cincinnati in 2024 while on loan from Shakhtar.

"We are delighted with the acquisition of Kevin, and our staff believe he is a player that has huge potential. With support from ownership, this investment allows us to strengthen our attacking group now and Kevin's addition will bring a different component along our front line," Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy said. "Our club is excited to continue supporting his development and growth as a young player, and we are eager to see the influence he can have with us here in Portland."

Kelsy scored nine goals in 37 matches with Shakhtar from 2023-24.

"Kevin is a player that we've watched for months now. He's young and one of the brightest center forwards in world football," Timbers coach Phil Neville said. "We're really excited to have him join us -- he's got pace, power, a lot of development and scores goals. His great potential will fit great with the young group that we have here at Portland."

--Field Level Media