Crew SC adding defender Amro Tarek according to Real Betis

Crew SC appears to have made a signing, but not an attacker. Real Betis announced that they have loaned 23 year old Egyptian defender Amro Tarek to Columbus for six months with an option to extend for the entire 2016 season. The deal has not been announced by Columbus Crew SC or MLS, but that appears to be a formality.

Tarek was born in Los Angeles, but moved to Egypt in his youth. He trained with a couple youth teams, but made the move to Germany and joined 3rd Division Magdeburg’s academy. He appeared with the B teams of Magdeburg, Freiburg and Wolfsburg from 2010 through 2013, but failed to break into the Senior Team at any of his stops.

He found his footing after moving to Egyptian club El Gouna in 2013. He made 45 appearances over two seasons and cemented himself as a first team regular in defense. His impressive play in the Egyptian Premier League earned Tarek a transfer to Segunda División Spanish side Real Betis in July 2015.

Tarek is a big, athletic presence on defense at 6’2". He’s played mostly left back, but has slotted in centrally given his size. He’s also played left midfield. His ability to get forward would make him an attractive target for head coach Gregg Berhalter. The Crew SC offense is built on outside backs who can push forward into the attack. Tarek’s versatility implies an aptitude getting forward.

While Tarek hasn’t made an appearance for Betis in his half season with the team, there is a significant highlight reel of him with El Gouna (wearing the #3 shirt).

Correction: The story initially stated that the loan was for 12 months. It's for six months with an option to extend an additional six.