Houston Dynamo acquire forward Alberth Elis on full transfer

The Houston Dynamo have acquired Honduran forward Alberth Elis on a full transfer from C.F. Monterrey in Mexico’s Primera Division, the club announced today. Elis joined the Dynamo last year on a year-long loan with a transfer option, which the club executed to obtain his player rights.

The San Pedro Sula, Honduras native had a stellar debut season for the Dynamo as he tied for second on the team with 10 goals and was tied for third in assists with four. In his first postseason appearance, La Panterita scored the game-winning goal against Sporting Kansas City during the Knockout Round of the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs in overtime.

“The transfer of Alberth Elis to the Houston Dynamo sends a clear message from our ownership group and club to our fanbase and throughout MLS about our intent and ambition,” said Dynamo Vice President and General Manager Matt Jordan. “At just 21 years old, Alberth is already one of the top players in CONCACAF, and is a constant threat to opposing defenses. He has transitioned well to the city of Houston and our league, and we look forward to seeing him continue to grow and develop working with our coaching staff.”

Elis’ play for the Dynamo quickly earned him acclaim throughout the league as one of the league’s most dangerous young attacking threats. He was ranked 12th on the league’s “24 Under 24,” which recognizes the best young players in Major League Soccer. He also earned a spot in the MLS Team of the Week in Week 23, and his goal against Orlando City SC in Week 10 was voted AT&T MLS Goal of the Week.

“We are looking forward to Alberth continuing to bring his desire to attack defenders with his speed, his decision-making, and his scoring mentality. That is something that Alberth brought in 2017 and we hope he brings that again in 2018,” said Head Coach Wilmer Cabrera. “We are going to help him develop different skills, so he can grow as a player and help the team.”

The 21-year-old was also an important member of the Honduras National Team as he played in 11 games and scored four goals this year. All four of his goals came in Honduras’ seven World Cup Qualifying matches, including the opening goal in Honduras’ 3-2 win over Mexico on Oct. 10. Elis also played in four matches during 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Elis’ performances for club and country earned him a nomination for the CONCACAF Best XI squad this year.

Elis made his professional debut with C.D. Olimpia in 2013 and played in the Liga Nacional de Honduras with Los Leones until 2016. He left Honduras and joined C.F. Monterrey in Liga MX for the Torneo Apertura 2016 before joining the Dynamo on loan.

The Houston Dynamo now have 16 players on the roster for the 2018 season. Elis is the eighth player to occupy an international roster spot for the Dynamo, joining DF Adolfo Machado, DF Philippe Senderos, MF Juan David Cabezas, MF Tomás Martínez, MF Charlie Ward, FW Romell Quioto, FW Mauro Manotas. He occupies one of three Designated Player spots on the roster, along with Martínez and Torres.

HOUSTON DYNAMO PLAYERS CURRENTLY UNDER CONTRACT

TRANSACTION: Houston Dynamo executed the full transfer option to acquire forward Alberth Elis player rights.