RENTON , WASH. – Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Erik Friberg has been transferred to Malmö FF of Sweden’s top flight. Per Major League Soccer and club policy, terms of the transfer will not be disclosed.

“Erik is starting a young family, and he feels it would be best to do so close to home,” said General Manager Adrian Hanauer. “This move enables the couple to be near their families and have the proper support.”

Friberg is a native of Göteborg, Sweden and played his first five professional seasons for BK Häcken (2007-10) and Västra Frölunda IF (2005-06). Malmö, winner of a record 19 Swedish titles, finished fourth in the 2011 Allsvenskan and complete UEFA Europa League play on Thursday.

“I am very proud to have played for Sounders FC and our tremendous fans,” said Friberg. “It’s been a fantastic year for me, one that I will never forget. I want to thank my teammates, the coaches, the club officials and our supporters for all their help and encouragement. Perhaps in the future, there will be an opportunity for me to come back and play again for the Sounders.”

Friberg, 25, signed with Seattle in December of 2010 and started 23 regular season matches and appeared in 26. He scored one goal and contributed two assists.

Transaction: Seattle Sounders FC (MLS) – MF Erik Friberg transferred to Sweden’s Malmö FF