by CHRISTIAN ARAOS

Club interest in Ronald Matarrita is high enough that Alajuelense are looking for his replacement, club director Marco Vasquez said.

“Ronald will play outside the country, either in New York or Europe,” Vasquez told CRHoy.com. “It is difficult for him to stay and we have to find a replacement for a player who has grown so much.”

Matarrita has been linked to New York City FC and would fill a need at left back. His versatility on the left is also a plus for New York. Matarrita featured at left midfield for Alajuelense in several of his 22 matches during the 2015 season. The fleet-of-foot Matarrita could supply New York with a break-through wing option — a need they so sorely missed last season.

He is 21-years-old but has already made two appearances for the Costa Rican national team.

NYCFC have their full allotment of general and targeted allocation money available and have open international spots on their roster.