CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Independence announced on Wednesday the signing of 2017 MLS SuperDraft selection Jaime Siaj, pending the receipt of his P-1 visa and federation approval. The 21-year-old was drafted by the Colorado Rapids – the Independence’s MLS partner – in the Third Round (45th overall) of the SuperDraft this past January after featuring for the PDL’s Charlotte Eagles last season.  

“It’s good to come here after being drafted by Colorado,” said Siaj. “I think I’m still young and have to grow a lot, but the Independence is the ideal place.”

Siaj recorded 47 goals and 28 assists during his colligate career at Pfeiffer University as he appeared in 69 games for the Falcons. In 2015, Pfeiffer won the 2015 NCAA Division II Men's Championship. 

“Jaime has got great attacking instincts," said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. "He lit it up at the [Independence-Rapids Combine] invitational. He's a guy that has set up and scored a ton of goals at Pfeiffer from a wide position, which is not his natural position, so he has capability in front of the goal.”

RELATED: Preseason Acts As Proving Ground for Prospects

In addition to his collegiate experience, Siaj notched four goals in 13 games for the Eagles last summer as the side claimed the South Atlantic Division title. A native of Madrid, Spain, Siaj is a product of the Real Madrid youth system. 

“Playing with [Real Madrid] makes you a better player every single day, every single training,” said Siaj. “It was a really nice experience to learn new systems and I think I will always carry that learning experience with me.”