José Bizama holds a Dynamo scarf in front of the the BBVA Stadium scoreboard. (Courtesy of Houston Dynamo)

HOUSTON – Two of the Houston Dynamo’s recent offseason signings were centerbacks, and while both have helped solidify the backline, it’s still an uphill battle to stop leaking goals.

Houston hopes it’s latest signee, José Bizama, can help in that regard.

Bizama, a Chilean international who has three caps with the national team, joins La Naranja on a full transfer from Huachipato FC in Chile.

Bizama comes to the Orange having played more than 100 professional games since 2015. So, how soon could the Dynamo faithful see Bizama on the field?

The Chilean is currently getting his VISA situation in order and isn’t with the club. But even once he joins, fans may have to wait a while before they Bizama on the pitch.

“We need to see his level. His fitness. And we need to see at what level he is. We want to make sure that when he goes [on the pitch] he feels good,” Dynamo head coach Wilmer Cabrera said.

“And this league is difficult. It’s more athletic. More physical than the Chilean league, that’s for sure.”

One thing is certain, the front office loves the technical abilities Bizama can bring to the team.

“With his quality as a player, strong mentality and ability to play a variety of positions, he will strengthen our already talented group of defenders as we enter the second half of our season,” Dynamo vice president and general manager Matt Jordan said.

Cabrera agrees. He adds that the club know’s Bizama is a good, young, and technical player who can help the team’s defense.

“So that’s something that will bring the level higher for our practice and our games,” Cabrera said.

Bizama can play both centerback and right back, which now puts those that play that position on notice. And while he may take some time to assimilate to the team and to Major League Soccer, competition for playing time can only improve the team.

One of those players who may have to battle for playing time is current right back A.J. DeLaGarza.

“I think it’s good for everyone. When someone is coming that plays your position there’s a reason. It’ll put a little bit more oomph in my step, or whoever else’s steps to perform better,” DeLaGarza said.

“Obviously, we’ve been leaking goals and they’re going to bring in players to help us. No matter where that is. We’ve been leaking goals so obviously we need a defender who can come in and possibly help us out and help us get back into the playoff run and make a push this season.”