Vancouver Whitecaps FC have acquired 21-year-old Ecuadorian forward Bruno Caicedo from Barcelona SC on a U22 Initiative contract that runs through the 2028-29 MLS season with a club option for 2029-30, the club announced Saturday.
The transfer remains pending the completion of an international transfer certificate, visa, work permit, and medical clearance.
Caicedo spent the 2025 season on loan at Orense SC in Ecuador’s top flight, where he recorded three goals and three assists across 31 appearances. The young forward has also represented Ecuador at the youth international level, featuring for the U-20 national team at the 2025 U-20 South American Championship.
\”We’ve seen him develop into a player capable of making a real impact in the final third, and we believe he’s ready to take the next step in his career,\” a club representative said of the acquisition.
Caicedo expressed enthusiasm about joining the Canadian club, stating: \”I will leave everything on the field and can’t wait to be at BC Place to play in front of the best fans in Vancouver.\”
The U22 Initiative designation allows MLS clubs to sign up to three players aged 22 or younger with reduced budget charges, providing roster flexibility while adding young international talent. Caicedo becomes the latest South American prospect to join Vancouver’s attacking corps as the club looks to bolster its offensive options ahead of the 2026 MLS season.
