The Portland Timbers have re-signed forward Gaston Fernandez, according to sources.

The Oregonian contacted the Timbers, but the club would not comment on the signing.

The Argentine forward joined the Timbers ahead of the 2014 season and made 32 appearances (17 starts) for Portland in 2014, recording seven goals and two assists.

Fernandez started the 2014 season in Portland's starting lineup, but by midseason he had been relegated to the bench and used mostly as a late game substitute. Still, Fernandez proved to be an adept goal scorer and a useful asset for the Timbers when on the field.

The Timbers initially announced on Dec. 8 that they were in contract negotiations with Fernandez.

Waiting to sign Argentine forward worked to the Timbers advantage. Portland left Fernandez unprotected in the Dec. 10 MLS Expansion Draft, but neither Orlando City SC or New York City FC decided to draft the out-of-contract player.

The 31-year-old could take over the starting role at the No. 10 position at the beginning of next season as Timbers midfielder Diego Valeri continues to recover from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery.

-- Jamie Goldberg | @jamiebgoldberg