Kevin Kelsy (foto: Official TW/IG/FB account)
Venezuelan striker Kevin Kelsy has joined the Portland Timbers on a multi-year contract, bringing his talents from Shakhtar Donetsk to bolster their attack.
The Portland Timbers have secured the signing of Kevin Kelsy, acquiring the promising Venezuelan forward from Shakhtar Donetsk in a deal that runs through 2028, with an option for 2029.
To facilitate the transfer, Portland traded $75,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money (GAM) to FC Cincinnati for the right of first refusal. Additionally, the Timbers could send an extra $100,000 in conditional GAM, depending on Kelsy's performance milestones. The towering six-foot-four striker will fill a U22 Initiative roster slot, adding a fresh dimension to Portland’s attacking options.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kevin to Portland,” said general manager Ned Grabavoy. “He is a player with immense potential, and with the backing of our ownership, we are making an important investment to strengthen our front line. We are eager to see how he grows with us.”
Kelsy, now 20, previously spent the 2024 MLS season with FC Cincinnati, scoring six goals in 16 starts while on loan from Shakhtar Donetsk. His contributions were pivotal in helping Cincinnati secure a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference, and his goal tally made him the top-scoring teenager in the league. He also featured in two postseason matches, converting a crucial penalty in a shootout against New York City.
“Kevin is one of the most promising young center forwards in the game,” said head coach Phil Neville. “He brings pace, power, and a strong goal-scoring instinct, and we believe he will fit perfectly within our young squad.”
Born in Valencia, Venezuela, Kelsy netted nine goals across 37 matches for Shakhtar over two seasons, showcasing his talents in both the Champions League and Europa League. Before moving to Europe, he made his professional debut at just 16 for Mineros de Guayana in the Venezuelan Primera División, where he scored five goals in 31 appearances.
On the international stage, Kelsy has featured for Venezuela's U23 and U20 squads, scoring four goals in 16 matches. His most recent highlight came in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Argentina’s U23s, where he found the net in the 100th minute.