IMAGE, MATT KREMKAU FOR EMPIRE OF SOCCER

by DAVE MARTINEZ

The New York Red Bulls went from a club that was desperate for defensive reinforcements to a team stacked on backline talent.

That makes players expendable. And Karl Ouimette is the odd man out.

EoS has learned that the Red Bulls have reached an agreement with the Jacksonville Armada on a season long loan deal, sending the Canadian international to the North American Soccer League through the 2016 season.

Ouimette, 24, played a vital role in the Red Bulls defense earlier this year. With Ronald Zubar and Gideon Baah out with injury, the former Montreal Impact Homegrown player became the default centerback starter, earning seven starts with the club from March through April. The acquisition of Aurelien Collin, along with the return from injury of Zubar and Baah, spelled the end of Ouimette’s time with the Red Bull senior team.

He has not featured in the Red Bulls’ 18-man roster since April 30th, creating an opportunity for Ouimette to find minutes elsewhere.

According to our sources, the remaining portion of Ouimette’s salary will be paid by the Armada. His loan will also open up an international slot for the New York Red Bulls.

Ouimette is currently in Jacksonville, and has already begun training with the club. Ouimette will be the club’s third offseason acquisition following the signings of Swedish talents Alexander Andersson and Nicklas Maripuu.

The Armada begin their Fall season campaign on July 2nd, facing the Rowdies at Tampa Bay.