Philadelphia Union

The big news of the day is that Jimmy McLaughlin is the Philadelphia Union’s second homegrown signing. Ed has all the details here. McLaughlin said he has spoken to Zach Pfeffer about turning pro. ““It’s a business and you’re playing for a spot every day. He’s kind of already been through the swing of things and I would love to get that knowledge under my belt.”

The Union took a pass on the second leg of the re-entry draft, but the Galaxy were very active. Scott French reviews the four players LA picked up.

The Union announced a February 18th preseason friendly against Orlando City.

In other MLS player news, Brek Shea is Backpage Football’s One2Watch. Previous Ones2Watch include Brazilian star Ganso, Ajax wunderkind Christian Eriksson, and Arsenal signing Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain.

Seattle’s Erik Friberg has transferred to Malmo of the Swedish top division. The Sounders said Friberg wanted to be closer to home to start a family. Nice.

WPS

WPS has been sanctioned as a division one league by US Soccer, subject to certain secret conditions. Does US Soccer operate out of the same treehouse as Calvin and Hobbes’ club?

MLS

Five players from the NCAA College Cup final have been invited to the MLS combine. Charlotte’s Charles Rodriguez is an intriguing second prospect for the Union. After excelling as a center back for most of his career, injuries on the back line forced Rodriguez out to left back where he proved to be an above average stay at home defender. For a team without much cover in back, versatility is key for the Union.

Goal.com looks at how players selected in last year’s re-entry draft contributed to their team’s success or failure (hey, Chivas!)

Omar Bravo lasted slightly longer in MLS than Carlos Ruiz. After one season with Sporting KC, the Mexican striker is moving to Cruz Azul of the Mexican top division.

US

Will the Stop Online Piracy Act stifle soccer in the US? Maybe, but it will do many scarier things as well.

The Shin Guardian examines the invitees and potential selections for Klinsmann’s latest camp.

Herculez Gomez joined Santos Laguna. Yup.