Report - Veron Close to Signing with D.C.

SoccerAmerica.com says D.C. United is extremely close to finalizing the signing of Argentinean midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron. After months of speculation that a deal was imminent, Veron's wife has reportedly been house-hunting in the area. Also, D.C. coach Tom Soehn was recently in Argentina to do some scouting at a player combine, though club officials would not confirm if a meeting with Veron was on the schedule.At 32 years of age, Veron is currently a free agent after his contract with Estudiantes de la Plata has been allowed to expire. Named as one of the FIFA 100, a list of the 125 greatest footballers according to Pele, Veron has played for some of the most established teams in the world, including Manchester United, Lazio, Chelsea, Parma, and Inter Milan.

At the national level, La Brujita has been a regular with the Argentine national team, making more than 60 appearances for the Albicelestes since 1996. Most recently, he was a starter for his country's run to the final of Copa America 2007.

If and when he signs with D.C. as their designated player, United officials will need to find a way to stay under the MLS salary cap. Though only $400,000 of Veron's final salary will count towards the cap, the club is also in the midst of negotiations with former MVP Christian Gomez (who is threatening to go elsewhere), and league-leading goal-scorer and current MVP Luciano Emilio (who wants a big raise).