Portland Timbers sign free agent goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau | OneFootball

Portland Timbers have signed free agent goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau from LAFC on a free transfer through the 2025 MLS season with an option for 2026.

Crepeau remains in the Western Conference and joins the Timbers after spending the last two seasons with LAFC, where his stellar play helped the Black and Gold lift 2022 MLS Cup.

"We are delighted with the acquisition of Max Crépeau and welcome his family to Portland. His ability and character are standout qualities that will strengthen our group," said Portland general manager Ned Grabavoy in a release.

"Max possesses leadership and experience that was a necessity for us in this position and we couldn't be more thrilled by his addition."

The 29-year-old managed 51 appearances for LAFC after joining in January 2022, conceding 54 goals and keeping 17 clean sheets across all competitions. He most notably made the ultimate sacrifice in 2022 MLS Cup, as he made a last-ditch challenge on Philadelphia Union forward Cory Burke that saw him get sent off in extra-time while also suffering a fractured leg in the process.

It was Crepeau's decision to tackle Burke outside of the box with the score knotted up at 3-3 that allowed backup goalkeeper John McCarthy to step up and make two huges saves to propel LAFC to victory in penalty kicks.

"I'm excited to welcome Max to our team. He is one of the top goalkeepers in MLS and comes with great experience of winning in the league. His big leadership qualities will make the team stronger," said first-year head coach Phil Neville.

Crepeau, who has 15 appearances with Canada at the international level, also lifted the 2022 Supporters' Shield with LAFC after they amassed 67 points from 32 games played. Crepeau and LAFC made to three finals in 2024 -- Concacaf Chamions League, Campeones Cup and MLS Cup -- but unfortunately came away empty-handed.

Prior to his time in Los Angeles, Crepeau had stints with Candian sides CF Montreal and Vancouver Whitecaps. He won two Canadian Championships with Montreal in 2013 and 2014, while going on to register 13 clean sheets and 96 goals conceded in 61 games played for Vancouver.

Crepeau becomes the fifth addition of the offseason for Portland ahead of Neville's first year at the helm, joining Kamal Miller, Trey Muse, James Pantemis and Eric Miller. The Timbers begin their 2024 MLS season on February 24 at home against Colorado Rapids.