Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:
Savarese takes coaching reins in Portland
Portland named erstwhile New York Cosmos tactician Giovanni Savarese as their new head coach on Monday. The former MetroStars strike ace will officially be presented in January. READ MORE
In hiring Savarese, Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle says the Timbers have installed a boss who understands the importance of winning over the home fans. READ MORE
CCL Draw: Rapids to take on TFC as MLS squads learn fates
The CONCACAF Champions League Round of 16 draw took place on Monday, setting up an all-MLS battle between freshly crowned league champs Toronto FC and Colorado. READ MORE
Reports: Have Besiktas landed Larin?
A swarm of reports out of Turkey claim that Besiktas have agreed a deal to land Canada striker Cyle Larin from Orlando City, putting them close to ending a protracted chase. READ MORE
While exit rumors continue to swirl around Larin, Orlando City did some acquisition business on Monday. In addition to inking an extension with Dillon Powers, the Lions swooped for NYCFC defender R.J. Allen and Miami FC's NASL Goden Boot forward Stefano Pinho. READ MORE
RSL seal deal for Brooks Lennon
As expected, Real Salt Lake have completed the full capture of US youth international winger Brooks Lennon from Liverpool. READ MORE
Headed to LA, Bingham continues to weigh options
The LA Galaxy swung a deal with San Jose to acquire the rights to US netminder David Bingham on Monday, but Sam Stejskal reports that he's yet to sign because he first wants to explore some options across the pond. READ MORE
Barco pushing Atlanta deal?
Though Independiente phenom Ezequiel Barco has some big European clubs hot on his transfer trail, Argentine outlet TyC Sports claims the young playmaker will lobby the club to accept Atlanta United's offer. READ MORE