Chicago Fire Secure Rising Ivorian Midfielder Dje D’Avilla

Chicago Fire FC have officially signed 21-year-old Ivorian midfielder Dje D’Avilla from Portuguese side União Desportiva de Leiria, the club announced Tuesday. The deal, completed under Major League Soccer’s U22 Initiative, sees D’Avilla join the Fire on a contract through the 2028 season, with a club option for 2029. The former Leiria standout will also occupy an international roster slot.

D’Avilla makes the move to MLS following a standout 2024-25 campaign, appearing in 26 matches across all competitions. Since arriving in Portugal in 2022, he featured in over 50 games and played a key role in Leiria’s promotion from the third tier to Liga Portugal 2. Head coach and sporting director Gregg Berhalter praised the young midfielder’s maturity, calling him “an exciting talent” with valuable international experience.

The 6-foot-3 midfielder began his professional journey with Stella Club d'Adjamé in Ivory Coast, followed by a stint at Lanfiara Sport Attécoubé, and later joined Al Hilal United in the UAE. His consistent development and ability to impact games have positioned him as a promising addition to the Fire’s long-term project.