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Former Philadelphia Union Midfielder Fred Moves Back To Australia

By Scott Kessler
WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 14: Fred #27 of D.C. United controls the ball against the Colorado Rapids at RFK Stadium on May 14, 2011 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Ned Dishman/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 14: Fred #27 of D.C. United controls the ball against the Colorado Rapids at RFK Stadium on May 14, 2011 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Ned Dishman/Getty Images)
Getty Images

It appears that Fred wanted to go back to Australia after all. The Brazilian midfielder's contract with DC United included an escape clause if a foreign team took interest. United have agreed to allow Fred to go to Melbourne Heart on a free transfer, freeing up about $150,000 in salary cap room for DC.

Five starts and 11 appearances out of 13 games wasn't enough for Fred, whose best seasons of his career were in the A League in Australia with Melbourne. 

The surprising part of this move for Fred is that he has stated on multiple occasions that he wants to settle down in one place for his family. His brother also plays for United and Fred has history in DC, having played for the team after coming to America after his first stint with Melbourne.

Going to Melbourne would mark the seventh time that Fred has changed teams since 2005.

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