PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Timbers have acquired targeted allocation money and a conditional second-round 2017 MLS SuperDraft pick from Toronto FC in exchange for midfielder Will Johnson, it was announced today. Per league and club policy, terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“On behalf of the entire organization, I would like to thank Will for his tremendous contributions to the club both on and off the field during his time in Portland,” said Gavin Wilkinson, general manager of the Timbers. “He has been a true professional, leader and ambassador during his time here. Given his standing with the club, it was important to come to an agreement that was mutually beneficial for both sides and one that involved Will in the process so that his wishes were met.”
Johnson, 28, appeared in 69 regular-season matches for the club during his three seasons in Portland (2013-15), recording 15 goals and seven assists, including an MLS career-high nine goals and five assists in 2013. Additionally, he was a two-time MLS All-Star with the Timbers, earning recognition in 2013 and 2014.
“During the three years Will Johnson has been with the Portland Timbers he has been a first-class professional in every regard,” said Caleb Porter, head coach of the Timbers. “His leadership and performance on the pitch certainly have been vital to our evolution into a championship club. I personally wish him nothing but the best in his future and have no doubts he will make an immediate and lasting impact in Toronto, just like he has with the Timbers.”
After recovering from surgery to repair a fractured tibia and fibula in his right leg sustained on Sept. 27, 2014, Johnson appeared in 12 games (all starts) during the 2015 regular season, making his season debut on May 27 in a 1-0 win against D.C. United. He logged 1,046 minutes in 2015 and earned multiple call-ups to the Canada Men’s National Team, appearing in four 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches in September and November.
“My time in Portland was a dream come true, and I want to thank Merritt, Gavin, Caleb and his staff for the opportunity to wear the green and gold,” said Johnson. "I am thankful to all my teammates, with whom I now share an unbreakable championship bond. And finally, the supporters, the lifeblood of the club, as the gaffer says. Thank you for your unwavering support.”
The Timbers 2013 Supporters’ Player of the Year, Johnson helped guide the Timbers to the MLS Cup Playoffs in 2013 and 2015, logging five postseason appearances and lifting MLS Cup for the second time in his MLS career in 2015.
