RSL acquires forward Plata from Toronto FC in exchange for 2015 draft pick

Real Salt Lake has acquired Ecuadorian striker Joao Plata from Toronto FC in exchange for a second-round SuperDraft pick in 2015, the club announced today.

Plata has been rumored to join for nearly a week, but unlike initial reports, Plata joins Real Salt Lake on a permanent basis and not on loan — a move which hardly made sense in MLS anyway.

The diminutive forward last played at LDU Quito, where he was sent on loan from Toronto FC for six months.

Garth Lagerwey, Real Salt Lake general manager, said in a press release that the club is excited for Plata's potential at the club.

"We are happy to add a fast, young forward with MLS experience," Lagerwey said in a press release. "We believe that Joao can become an impactful member of our team as we continue to work to restock our forward group."

Plata will join the roster pending an international transfer certificate and a P1 visa.

It is highly unlikely that Plata will be the final signing of the offseason, as RSL coach Jason Kreis and Lagerwey have both indicated that two strikers are set to arrive.

RSL's forward ranks now reads: Alvaro Saborio, Robbie Findley, Joao Plata, Devon Sandoval.