Juan Pablo Angel Signs With Red Bull New York

Aston Villa striker Juan Pablo Angel has officially been introduced as the newest member of Red Bull New York. Angel, a 31-year-old Colombian, should be able to play within two weeks, with the delay due to getting government paperwork in order.

"I'm extremely excited about this opportunity," said Angel. "All the big names going to the league... When I had the opportunity to talk to Bruce [Arena], I wanted to be a part of what they were trying to do."

Angel should help attract new fans to the team from New York City's large Colombian population. He is a regular on his country's national team, which has played in New York 10 times since 1996.

Red Bulls After Marcelo Salas?

According to Chilean daily La Tercera, Red Bull New York may be in the running for Marcelo Salas. Salas, 32, is somewhat injury-prone, but has been a prolific scorer at every point in his career. In his latest stint with Universidad de Chile, he scored 26 goals in 37 appearances. He was released by the team in December 2006 by the law-imposed administration, a move that was criticized by team supporters who claim that Salas is the team soul, best player and fan favorite.

Red Bull New York has already agreed on a transfer fee for another potential DP - Aston Villa striker Juan Pablo Angel - but negotiations over Angel's salary have stalled talks, for now.

Touched by an Angel?

According to SoccerAmerica.com, Red Bull New York is in negotiations to bring Juan Pablo Angel to the club from EPL side Aston Villa. RBNY is reportedly offering the Colombian striker around $2-million/year, which is far less than the $4.92-million/year being offered by Angel's old Argentine club River Plate. Red Bull has negotiated a transfer fee with Aston Villa, but has yet to reach terms with Angel.

The article also speculates that Angel, 31, could just be using MLS as a bargaining chip. He said recently that he'd like to stay in England for a few more years and was on his way to Arsenal but the transfer fee couldn't be agreed upon.