Allsopp lands deal with DC United

Former Socceroos and Melbourne Victory striker Danny Allsopp is heading to the US after signing with Major League Soccer outfit DC United, dashing any hopes of a return to the A-League.

The Victory had been hopeful of attracting the 31-year-old back to Etihad Stadium after he was released by the club they sold him to four months ago, Qatar’s Al-Rayyan.

But Allsopp has opted to continue his career abroad, taking up a reportedly lucrative offer with the Washington club, which first tried to sign him three seasons ago on the recommendation of former Victory teammate Fred.

United announced on their website on Tuesday Allsopp would join the club pending visa clearance.

“Danny has shown an ability to score goals wherever he’s been and we are confident he will continue to do so for DC United,” the club’s general manager Dave Kasper said.

“He’s an athletic forward with a nose for the goal who will complement our other attacking players and we look forward to having him in with the team.”

The well-travelled Allsopp spent eight years in England, including stints at Manchester City and Hull, before returning to Australia to play for the Victory.

He was the top scorer in the regular rounds of the 2006/07 A-League season when he went on to win one of two championships with the Victory.

Allsopp, who has three caps for Australia, said he was looking forward to the challenge of playing for United, who have won four MLS titles since the competition began in 1996.

“I’m delighted to be joining such a successful club as DC United,” Allsopp said.

“Their history speaks for itself and I’m really excited about the move.

“Playing in MLS is a challenge and I am really looking forward to it.

“I’m hoping to make a real impact to help carry on the club’s great tradition.”

The MLS is home to stars including David Beckham, Freddie Ljungberg and Landon Donovan.