NASHVILLE, TN - Nashville SC announced the signing of goalkeeper Xavier Valdez on Friday. Valdez, 21, was selected by Nashville in the MLS End-of-Year Waivers in December.
“Xavier is an exciting young prospect who has already achieved some unique playing experiences domestically and internationally for a goalkeeper his age,” said Nashville SC General Manager Mike Jacobs in the club's press release. “We are looking forward to having him join our goalkeeping corps here in Nashville.”
Valdez was signed to a homegrown contract by Houston Dynamo FC in 2022, and made over 50 appearances for their MLS NEXT Pro side, keeping six clean sheets in his first 13 starts. On the international level, Valdez has made 11 caps for the Dominican Republic, starting all their matches during the 2024 Concacaf Nations League.
After Elliot Panicco was waived on Wednesday, Valdez is the second goalkeeper on Nashville's roster behind long-term starter Joe Willis. It is expected that Nashville will add at least one more goalkeeper before the season officially begins.
