Steven Beitashour officially joins LAFC as free agent

After leading Toronto FC to the first treble in MLS history, defender Steven Beitashour has brought his talents to Southern California by joining Los Angeles Football Club as a free agent.

Terms of the signing were not disclosed, but he becomes the second free agent signing in LAFC history, according to the club.

LAFC General Manager John Thorrington said the club has landed “a proven player who has been one of the top MLS player [sic] in his position …”

“We are pleased to add another veteran presence who will be a great example to our players with what he adds every day in training and in games. We trust he will make our fans proud,” Thorrington said, on the LAFC website.

Beitashour was drafted by the San Jose Earthquakes in 2010 and helped lead the team to the 2012 Supporters’ Shield – the same season he was an MLS All-Star. In 2014, he played for Vancouver Whitecaps FC before landing at Toronto FC in 2016.

He helped Toronto to the Eastern Conference title in 2016 and the treble last season.

Overall, he has made 192 MLS appearances – including 186 starts – and notched two goals and 30 assists as a right back and right wingback.

“Steven is a valuable and versatile player who just won a championship in Toronto,” said LAFC head coach Bob Bradley, on the team’s website. “He will help us build a winning culture in Los Angeles.”

Internationally, Beitashour was on the Iranian National Team roster during the 2014 World Cup.

Beitashour’s addition means LAFC have signed their full allotted complement of MLS Free Agents (players at least 28 with eight or more years of MLS experience) this offseason, as Beitashour has been joined by former Vancouver teammate Jordan Harvey on the other flank.

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