Austin FC sign Danish D Mikkel Desler through 2027

Austin FC are signing Danish defender Mikkel Desler through the end of the 2027 season, the team said Monday.

Desler, 29, arrives as a free agent after playing for France's Toulouse FC since 2021.

His deal with Austin includes an option for 2028 and he will occupy an international roster slot. He will be eligible to join the team on July 18.

"We're very happy to welcome Mikkel and his family to Austin," said Austin FC sporting director Rodolfo Borrell. "He's an accomplished professional who has a lot of experience competing at an elite level in Europe, and he is sure to strengthen our options at outside back."

Desler recorded three goals and nine assists in 103 appearances with Toulouse, helping the club earn promotion to Ligue 1 in his first season in 2021-22. He previously played for Odense BK in his native Denmark from 2014-19 and with Norway's Haugesund from 2019-21.

"When I first spoke with Rodolfo and he explained to me the project at Austin FC, I realized the chance to join the Club was an opportunity I couldn't pass up," said Desler. "I can't wait to get to Austin, meet my teammates and the fans, and play at Q2 Stadium for the first time."

--Field Level Media