Red Bulls Acquire Josue Martinez and Allocation Money from Union

HARRISON, NJ (Dec. 6, 2012) – The New York Red Bulls announced today that they have acquired forward Josué Martinez and allocation money in exchange for forward Sébastien Le Toux.

“We are excited to bring Josué to the Red Bulls. Our staff considers him a young player with potential. In addition, the allocation money we received will provide us some financial flexibility,” said Red Bulls Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh. “Sébastien indicated to us at the end of the season that he wanted to return to Philadelphia and we respected his request. We want to thank him for his service to the Red Bulls club and wish him the best of luck in the future.”

In his first season in MLS, Martinez played in 18 games, starting in six and scored one goal. The 22-year-old was signed from Costa Rican side, Deportivo Saprissa, on Dec. 7, 2011. In 2011, Martinez played 18 games and tallied six goals. A year before, Martinez helped Saprissa win the Costa Rican First Division Clausura. Martinez started his career in 2009 with Saprissa and appeared in a total of 66 matches over three seasons, notching 19 goals.

On the international level, Martinez has earned 16 caps for Costa Rica and scored two goals. He was also part of the Costa Rican 2009 FIFA Under-20 World Cup squad that finished fourth.

Le Toux, who was out of contract with New York at the end of the 2012 season, was acquired by New York on July 13, 2012 from Vancouver Whitecaps FC in exchange for Dane Richards and allocation money. In his stint with the Red Bulls, Le Toux played in 14 games (nine starts) and recorded one goal and one assist.

Josué Martinez
Position: Forward
Pronunciation: HO-sway mar-TEE-nezz
Height: 5-10
Weight: 159 pounds
Day of Birth: March 25, 1990 in San Jose, Costa Rica
Hometown: San Jose, Costa Rica
Previous Club: Philadelphia Union (Major League Soccer)
How Acquired: Acquired on Dec. 6, 2012 along with allocation money from the Philadelphia Union in exchange for Sébastien Le Toux.