Reports today in the New York Post have furthered speculation about the potential MLS signing of Colombian International Faryd Mondragon. The 39 year old FC Köln keeper was rumored to be on his way to MLS this past summer, but has again shown interest in coming to the states. Some reports have even suggested that he was at MLS HQ in New York recently and can be considered as a likely signing this winter. Initial beliefs were that Mondragon was headed to the New York Red Bulls, but the Post has confirmed that he is not headed to Red Bull Arena.

That’s where the facts of the story end. Mondragon has reportedly been in negotiations with an undisclosed club. The Post speculates that Philadelphia would be a likely destination for the former Independiente and Galatasary stalwart as most other MLS teams have an established number one keeper. Koln is also in the drop zone in the Bundesliga and player movement in and out over the winter window seems likely.

Interestingly, Mondragon is also good friends with New York Red Bull outcast Juan Pablo Angel. Angel, a prolific forward, will likely be one of the biggest names available in next month’s re-entry draft and, though he would command a substantial salary (he made $1.9 million last year), he has excellent skills in the air, offers great hold-up play, and is looking to continue his career in MLS on a grass surface.

The timing of this is interesting as Mondragon would likely command a substantial salary as well. Its difficult to say just how substantial, but its possible that acquiring the keeper may require a salary in excess of 300K and nearing on the low end of designated player money. Both salaries would be a cap hit for the Union, but the excess funds could come from a shirt sponsor, which Commissioner Don Garber says “most teams” will have and should be the focus of every team “for marketing, branding and credibility purposes.”

Who will be the Union’s first designated player? What if its a two-for-one deal?