SANDY, Utah -- Real Salt Lake has re-signed forward Joao Plata to a multi-year contract and he will continue to hold a designated-player spot.
The 24-year-old Ecuador international was acquired from Toronto FC before the 2013 season and he has 30 goals and 30 assists in regular-season play with RSL.
"Ever since I came to Real Salt Lake, I've felt at home," Plata said. "The team, the players, the fans -- they all welcomed me and I'm happy to stay here for a long time."
The ink is dry. https://t.co/yvOSYKkgms pic.twitter.com/uDYjk2XwNK
- Real Salt Lake (@RealSaltLake) February 27, 2017
Said RSL general manager Craig Waibel: "Any time you can make a long-term commitment between the player and the club on such a promising player with so much attacking ability, you never shy away from that opportunity. The timing was perfect to extend.
"He's having a good time with RSL. He continues the mold we've created of solidifying a core group of players that can be here for a long time."
Plata ranks No. 3 on the team's all-time assists list and No. 5 in goals. He has 33 goals and 35 assists over his MLS career.
Real Salt Lake begins the season Saturday when it hosts Toronto FC.