HARRISON, NJ (Dec. 3, 2012) – The New York Red Bulls announced today that they acquired defender Kosuke Kimura and a natural second round 2013 MLS SuperDraft pick from the Portland Timbers in exchange for allocation money and the MLS Homegrown rights for defender Bryan Gallego.

Kimura, who was out of contract in MLS, has signed a new deal with the Red Bulls.

“Kosuke is a player who has impressed us for several years and we are happy to bring him to our club. He will provide depth in the fullback position and his MLS experience will be a great asset for us,” said Red Bulls Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh.

Kimura, 28, played in 17 games, starting in 16, while recording one goal and one assist for the Timbers. He was acquired in midseason on July 5, 2012 from the Colorado Rapids in exchange for allocation money and an international slot. In the first part of his 2012 season with Colorado, Kimura started 12 games and logged a goal and an assist.

Originally drafted by the Rapids in the third round (35th overall) in the 2007 MLS Supplemental Draft out of Western Illinois University to become the first Japanese-born player in MLS, Kimura played in 117 total games for Colorado, starting in 109 and recorded four goals and eight assists. In 2010, Kimura featured in 23 matches and was a key component in the Rapids’ MLS Cup Championship-winning season that year. In that playoff run, Kimura started in four matches and scored a goal.

Gallego was a product of the Red Bulls Academy and currently attends the University of Akron.

Kosuke Kimura

Position: Defender

Pronunciation: KOHS-kay kee-MOO-rah

Height: 5-9

Weight: 155 pounds

Day of Birth: May 14, 1984 in Kobe, Japan

Hometown: Kobe, Japan

Previous Club: Portland Timbers (Major League Soccer)