Renton, WA -- (Sports Network) - The Seattle Sounders FC signed Costa Rican defender Leonardo Gonzalez, pending receipt of his P-1 work permit and International Clearance, it was announced on Thursday.

"It's nice to have to have a naturally left-footed player," Sounders coach Sigi Schmid said. "He can play left back, play center back in a pinch, and he can also play wide and run the whole line for us. He is an attacking left fullback with good size and athleticism. He's very willing to get forward out of a defensive position and does a good job defensively."

The 28-year-old, who most recently played for Liberia Mia of the Costa Rican first division, will join Sounders FC after completing his call-up to the Costa Rican national team for the CONCACAF Gold Cup.