Philadelphia Union acquire 21-year-old Bolivian defender on loan

The Philadelphia Union have announced the acquisition of 21-year-old Bolivian defender José Jamir Berdecio on as a season-long loan from Club Deportivo Oriente Petrolero.

“Jamir is a young and very talented player,” Philadelphia Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner stated in a news release. “We’ve watched his play in both the Bolivian Primera División and Bolivia’s U23 National Team and were impressed with his potential. We look forward to seeing how he integrates into our system of play and contributing to his development.”

Listed as a right back and holding midfielder, Berdecio has made 37 appearances and 29 starts in the Bolivian top flight since making his debut in March 2021. He recently made the Bolivia U23 team for the first time for a training camp ahead of the Conmebol Pre-Olympic Tournament but did not make the final roster for the tournament. Bolivia faces Union II striker Jose Riasco and Venezuela on Saturday.

The season-long loan agreement includes a purchase option. Expect to see Berdecio suiting up for Philadelphia Union II in MLS Next Pro to start the season.