D.C. United announced today the club has signed defender Dejan Jakovic to a new contract. The 27-year old played in 23 games this season (starting 21) and registered his first MLS goal in United’s 3-2 win over the New England Revolution on May 26. Per club and League policy, exact terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Dejan Jakovic Height: 6'2"

Weight: 186

Defender

Born: 7/16/85

Age: 27

Hometown: Karlovac, Croatia

Acquired: Signed on February 27, 2009 from Red Star Belgrade (Serbia)

“Dejan has become one of the top central defenders in Major League Soccer and finished his best season at D.C. United,” said D.C. United General Manager Dave Kasper. “We are thrilled to have secured his future at our club. It is an important objective of ours to keep our back line intact moving into 2013, and this signing is a big step in that direction.”

“I am very excited to extend my time here at D.C. United – I love the club, the city, and especially the fans,” said United defender Dejan Jakovic. “The club is moving in the right direction every day and I am proud to be a part of this special group.”

Acquired from Red Star Belgrade (Serbia) on February 27, 2009, Jakovic recently completed his fourth season with the Black-and-Red, having played 80 matches (77 starts) and logging 6,879 minutes with United thus far. At the international level, Jakovic has collected 12 caps (11 starts) with the Canada Men’s National Team, most recently contributing to the country’s 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

Collegiately, Jakovic was a standout at the University of Alabama, Birmingham (UAB). A two-time NSCAA All-Region First Team selection, Jakovic would lead UAB in scoring (six goals) in his final season in 2007. Jakovic finished his college career with 49 total appearances, tallying eight goals and five assists over three seasons.